PNP disbands EPD Drug Enforcement Unit over alleged robbery

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is dissolving the Eastern Police District's (EPD) Drug Enforcement Unit after eight of its members were accused of robbery during a supposed anti-drug operation in Pasig City.

The alleged target of the operation was not on the police drug watchlist, and the operatives reportedly stole jewelry worth approximately P500,000 and two motorcycle keys from the victims.

Authorities confirmed that no illegal drugs were recovered during the operation, and the stolen items declared by the victims were not found by investigators.

The entire EPD Drug Enforcement Unit, including its head, will be relieved from their posts as the PNP initiates a thorough investigation into the incident.

Pasig police chief Col. Hendrix Mangaldan stated that the DEU will remain disbanded until its members are replaced and a new team is vetted.

Acting PNP chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered an immediate probe into the allegations, and the backgrounds of the involved officers are being reviewed.