PNP-Anti Kidnapping Group acting director Ragay relieved from post

Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) acting director Police Colonel Elmer Ragay was relieved administratively from his post effective Friday, February 28, according to the PNP, Super Radyo dzBB reported.

PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil ordered the administrative relief of Ragay amid controversy surrounding the recent operation to rescue a kidnapped Chinese victim who was a minor. 

The decision was made "following adverse news reports and viral social media discussions questioning the legitimacy of a recent rescue operation involving a 14-year-old student from the British School Manila," the PNP said in a press release.

Marbil confirmed that the boy had been rescued but stressed the need for a comprehensive review to address public concerns and ensure full transparency. 

"As public servants, we must be open to scrutiny and ensure that our actions reflect the highest standards of integrity," Marbil said.

"This review is meant to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and reinforce public trust in the PNP," he added.

Meanwhile, the PNP said it will cooperate with a Senate probe into the matter which is scheduled next week.

"We respect the Senate’s authority to look into this matter and will extend our full cooperation in the proceedings," Marbil said.

He then assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted and those responsible will be held accountable if any lapses are found, while upholding the integrity of legitimate police operations.

On Feb. 20, a 14-year-old Chinese national studying in Taguig City was kidnapped, according to the Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order (MRPO). He was rescued on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 25.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Wednesday that a syndicate involved in the operations of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) before was behind the kidnapping.

Remulla also said the child's driver was found murdered in another vehicle.

The luxury van of the student was found in Bulacan a day after the victim was abducted. It was found abandoned 100 meters away from the Bypass Road in Kaingain, San Rafael, Bulacan on February 21, just one day after the kidnapping.

Inside the van, the body of the 29-year-old driver was found face-down behind the driver’s seat.

The slain family driver allegedly conspired with the suspects, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Authorities identified one of the suspects as Wang Dan Yu alias Bao Long, a Chinese fugitive wanted for several crimes including murder, carnapping, and kidnap for ransom. —Sherylin UntalanKG, GMA Integrated News