3 arrested in General Santos for using PNP names to extort gambling operators

Three individuals were arrested in General Santos City on Thursday for allegedly using the names of PNP officials to extort money from illegal gambling operators.

CIDG chief Police Major General Leo Francisco announced during a press briefing that Jeffrey Sison and Neil Toledo, both from Pasig City, and Ralph Stephen Abrenica, from San Juan, Batangas, were apprehended in Barangay Labangal on Thursday.

The suspects reportedly demanded PHP2.5 million from each victim under the guise of providing 'protection' for their illegal activities and dropped the names of PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil and CIDG Director Police Major General Leo Francisco during their endeavors.

Police seized guns and grenades from the suspects during their arrest, emphasizing that this was a common criminal tactic when new officials take up their positions.

CIDG warned the public not to comply with such demands and advised them that complaints under the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act will be filed against the suspects. The agency is also investigating whether these individuals are part of a larger syndicate or have any actual connection to high-ranking police officials.