Taguig city: Five suspects, including two active police officers, were arrested in a drug buy-bust operation in Taguig City over the weekend. The Philippine National Police - Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) on Monday said the suspects were apprehended during the operation conducted Saturday afternoon at Arca South, Taguig City.

According to Philippines News Agency, PDEG chief Brig. Gen. Elmer Ragay revealed in a press briefing that the arrested officers were members of the Taguig City Police Station. One officer was assigned to Substation 9 and the other to the Investigation Detection and Management Service. Ragay noted that the officers were also linked to a robbery incident targeting a PDEG asset and another individual prior to the operation.

Ragay described the incident, stating, "The suspects, riding in two motorcycles together with 2 other accomplices, arrived in the area and declared a holdup," highlighting that the officers were not part of the operation. He questioned their presence in the area, emphasizing that they are not designated drug operatives, with one being a patroller and the other involved in follow-up investigations.

The two officers reportedly have previous records involving Violence Against Women and Children and reckless imprudence. In response to the incident, the Taguig City government condemned the involvement of police personnel in illegal activities and reiterated its commitment to zero tolerance for illegal drugs and misconduct in law enforcement.

Mayor Lani Cayetano stated, "We commend the PNP for taking strong action. Efforts to cleanse the ranks are essential to maintaining the public's trust."