2 cops, 4 others nabbed over illegal transport of mineral ore in Misamis Oriental

Six individuals, including two police officers, were arrested in Misamis Oriental for the alleged illegal transport of mineral ore on Monday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

At a press briefing Tuesday, PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said authorities intercepted the suspects during an operation at a checkpoint after they flagged suspicious cargo being transported by the group.

“Kaya nagbigay ng instruction agad ang Chief PNP natin si [Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.] na i-relieve sa puwesto itong mga ito,” Tuaño said.

(That's why our PNP Chief General Nartatez, immediately gave instructions to relieve these officers from their posts," Tuaño said.

The police staff master sergeant and police staff sergeant were alleged protectors of the illegal activity, according to Tuaño. 

He noted that the two were caught in Misamis Oriental but they were assigned to the Monkayo Police Station in Davao de Oro, which means they were outside their jurisdiction.

Initial investigation showed that the group allegedly escorted and facilitated the movement of mineral ore without proper documentation.

Authorities said the seized materials were estimated to be worth around P90,000, though verification of the exact value is ongoing.

The suspects were taken into custody and are facing possible charges related to violations of environmental laws and other applicable regulations.

Tuaño said the involvement of uniformed personnel in the incident is being treated seriously and will be subject to both administrative and criminal proceedings. —AOL, GMA News