HPG chief accused of P7M bribe, shielding detainee

A senior police official from the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) is facing a complaint for allegedly accepting P7 million in bribes to protect a high-profile detainee and manipulate criminal cases, according to the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).

The implicated officer, HPG Special Operations Division chief Police Colonel Rommel Casanova Estolano, was accused by five HPG officers of grave misconduct, dishonesty, and unbecoming behavior.

Complainants alleged that Estolano engaged in a series of illegal acts to shield the wanted man from prosecution while punishing those who resisted his orders.

The complaint stems from an anti-carnapping operation on June 13 where the arrest yielded firearms, bulletproof vests, and explosives. Prosecutors found probable cause for indictment but claim Estolano attempted to obstruct justice.

Estolano allegedly accepted bribes totaling P7 million to secure dismissals of cases and provide special treatment while in detention, as well as suppressing key evidence such as the C4 explosive device.

The complainants are calling for an immediate and impartial investigation into Estolano's alleged misconduct.