Misamis oriental: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday launched an investigation into possible lapses in command responsibility after two police officers were arrested for allegedly transporting mineral ores outside their jurisdiction in Misamis Oriental. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said command accountability is under review following the arrest, which he said raised questions on how the activity went undetected.

According to Philippines News Agency, the fact that the officers were caught outside their jurisdiction suggests they were moonlighting as escorts. Nartatez emphasized the PNP's zero-tolerance policy for rogue policemen. In addition to facing criminal charges for violating the Mining Act, the two officers, both on active duty, are facing administrative cases for grave misconduct.

The arrest occurred on Monday when authorities intercepted a utility van at a checkpoint in Barangay Limonda in Opol, Misamis Oriental. Police discovered 58 sacks of suspected unprocessed mineral ores valued at approximately PHP290,000, along with firearms and ammunition owned by the officers. The group reportedly failed to present permits for the transport of the ores.

Nartatez ordered the immediate relief of the police officers involved - a senior master sergeant and a staff sergeant assigned to Monkayo Municipal Police Station in Davao Region - and highlighted the possible use of police protection in the operation. He stated that if there were lapses on the part of supervisors, they would also be held accountable. The Internal Affairs Service has been tasked with conducting the investigation to determine if a wider network of officers is involved.