Porac: A Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) has been formed to investigate five police officers for allegedly stealing PHP14 million in cash from a private contractor in Porac, Pampanga. In a phone interview with Camp Crame-based reporters, Police Regional Office Central Luzon (PRO-3) chief Brig. Gen Ponce Rogelio Pe±ones Jr. revealed details of the incident, which allegedly took place in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Porac, involving a police major, two police corporals, and two police staff sergeants.
According to Philippines News Agency, one of the corporals was assigned to the Zambales Provincial Police Office but was previously stationed at Angeles City Police Station 2. Brig. Gen Pe±ones stated that the officers have been relieved of their duties and are currently under restrictive custody while the investigation is underway. Three of the officers reportedly have derogatory records with the Philippine National Police (PNP), with past involvements in incidents such as shooting and robbery-extortion.
Pe±ones explained that on the evening of November 25, the officers, except for the police major, allegedly entered the contractor's home in Barangay Santa Cruz, disguising their identities with face coverings. They purportedly locked the contractor, her family, and her guests in a comfort room before stealing PHP14 million in cash. Although the police major was not caught on security footage, Pe±ones suggested he could have orchestrated the robbery.
Pe±ones emphasized that the act was not a sanctioned police operation, noting the absence of pre-operation documents. The possibility of civilian involvement is also being investigated. When questioned about the contractor's profile, Pe±ones clarified that the contractor was not involved in flood control projects but typically held cash for payroll purposes.
While specific criminal charges against the officers were not disclosed, administrative charges for grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer are expected. The police plan to file cases through regular legal channels since the incident occurred on November 25.
Acting Philippine National Police chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced that the PNP Internal Affairs Service would conduct a separate investigation into the incident. He issued a stern warning to other officers, emphasizing that the police force will take action against those who compromise the integrity and discipline of the PNP.
