PNP-AKG chief relieved over student rescue controversy

Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) acting director Police Colonel Elmer Ragay was relieved of his duties on February 28 following adverse news reports questioning the legitimacy of a recent rescue operation involving a 14-year-old Chinese student from the British School Manila.

On the same day, PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil designated Police Colonel Paul Abay as the officer-in-charge of the PNP-AKG.

The administrative relief came at the command of PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil, who emphasized the need for transparency and thorough review to address growing public scrutiny and reinforce public trust in the PNP.

On February 20, the kidnapping occurred in Taguig City with the student rescued on February 25 without any arrests made by the PNP-AKG; the driver of the student's vehicle was found murdered in another car, with the van itself abandoned in Bulacan shortly after the kidnapping.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that a syndicate linked to former Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) orchestrated the kidnapping.

Gen. Marbil assured full cooperation with the Senate investigation scheduled for next week and promised thorough internal investigations, vowing to hold accountable those responsible while protecting the integrity of police operations.