AN INVESTIGATION is now being conducted by the Investigation and Detective Management Branch (IMDB) of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) against three police officers who were allegedly protectors of illegal drugs dealers, including the former Communal village chief and now village councilor Arnold Maalat, who was earlier nabbed in a drug bust.
DCPO spokesperson Police Senior Inspector Ma. Teresita Gaspan said they received information through a text message sent to their hotline number stating that these police non-commissioned officer assigned in Buhangin Police Station were protectors of drug personalities.
“Ongoing 'yung conduct ng investigation. If it is warranted by evidence, we will not tolerate. The Davao City Police Office naman has been strong in its campaign on internal cleansing. That is why we do not based on hearsay it must be accompanied by evidence,” Gaspan said.
Thus, she urged those who have personal knowledge on the whereabouts of their personnel to surface, substantiate their claims, and file a formal complaint.
“If there is allegation na they are protecting former barangay captain Maalat so maglabas sila ng evidence because we do not tolerate our personnel especially those involve in irregularity misconduct and abuse of rights so kung mapapatunayan ready naman kami,” she said.
Gaspan said the accused are still on duty since there has been no charges filed against them and as investigation is still ongoing.
The policemen have already been asked to give their side on the allegation, she said.
Last Sunday, November 26, agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) arrested Maalat in an anti-illegal drug operation at Purok Two, Barangay Communal, Buhangin District, Davao City.
Authorities recovered sachets of suspected illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, undetermined caliber of firearms and explosive.
Maalat is considered as a high-value target by authorities.