Manila: A retired police general who was among those charged over the mishandling of the PHP6.7-billion drug haul in Manila in October 2022 has already left the country, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press conference held at Camp Crame in Quezon City, PNP concurrent spokesperson and Police Regional Office-Central Luzon chief Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo stated that the officer departed the Philippines on January 8. This departure was before the issuance of an arrest warrant against him and 28 others for violating Section 92, which pertains to the delay and bungling in the prosecution of drug cases, under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Brig. Gen. Fajardo emphasized the importance of following due process, stating, "We have a process and let's give the process a chance to run its course. All of them are former PNP members. They know the process, and we expect that they understand it, and we have to respect the process and the court's jurisdiction."

The officers were also charged with violating Section 29 of the drug law, which involves the planting of evidence. Fajardo noted that nine of the accused, including four active police personnel, three retired, one resigned, and one dismissed, remain at large. Prosecutors are expected to seek a hold departure order against them.

Fajardo further mentioned her communication with Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief, revealing that no surrender feelers have been received. However, efforts are being made to locate both active and retired personnel involved.

The Manila Regional Trial Court Branches 175 and 44 have issued warrants of arrest against the 29 active and former police officers connected to the alleged planting of evidence and mishandling of prosecution during the anti-drug operation. In response, the PNP has established Task Force 29 to pursue these officers.