PNP forms task force for cops in P6.7B shabu haul cover-up

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has formed a special task force led by Lt. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo to apprehend police officers involved in the alleged cover-up of a P6.7 billion shabu haul in 2022.

The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 44 has issued arrest warrants against 29 individuals for planting evidence, delay, and bungling in the prosecution of the drug case.

As of Thursday, January 16, 2025, ten of the 29 cops ordered arrested are now in PNP custody, with nine arrested and one surrendering.

Of those in custody, eight are active-duty personnel and two have optionally retired.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo stated that four of the ten cops are in the custody of the PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the one who surrendered is under the custody of the PNP-Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG), two are currently under the Pasay City police station, and the remaining three are under the custody of PNP-Drug Enforcement Group, Batangas Police Provincial Office, and Alaminos Municipal Police Station, respectively.

Fajardo identified the ten officers, including ranks from Patrolman up to Police Lieutenant Colonel, and noted that each has a recommended bail of P200,000.

The PNP is still accounting for 12 other policemen in active duty status.

The case stems from a 2022 operation where approximately 990 kilos of shabu were recovered at a lending firm owned by Police Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo, Jr., who is alleged to have attempted to cover up the seizure.

PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil vowed "no mercy" for the wrongdoers.