A police patrolman and three civilians were arrested in a drug buy-bust operation in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.

Authorities did not identify the 35-year-old cop except to say that he was assigned at the Police Regional Office-Caraga (PRO-13). The policeman lives in Manolo Fortich Bukidnon while the three others are residents of Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.

Police said the target of the operation was actually one of the civilians who allegedly distributed drug items in the town. The policemen and the other suspects were caught in the act of having a pot session. 

Seized from the suspects were sachets of suspected shabu, a 9mm pistol, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia.

Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) Director, Brigadier General Ricardo Layug Jr., has condemned the alleged involvement of the policeman in illegal activities.

“The Philippine National Police will never tolerate or condone any illegal activities, especially those involving our own personnel. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within our ranks. Any officer found engaging in criminal activities will face the full force of the law,” Layug said.

Layug also warned all members of PRO-10 against engaging in illegal activities.