Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), commended the integrity of Highway Patrol Group (HPG) operatives who refused a ₱5 million bribe in exchange for the release of ₱143 million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in Quezon City on Dec. 17.
Nartatez emphasized that the HPG personnel’s decision to reject the bribe exemplifies the professionalism and commitment expected within the police force.
“It only shows how dedicated our personnel are to the HPG and the rest of our police officers,” he said.
On Dec. 17, HPG operatives conducted an intelligence-driven operation along G. Araneta Avenue in Quezon City that led to the interception of two trailer trucks loaded with smuggled cigarettes.
The intelligence reports that the shipment was allegedly picked up from a coastal area in Bauan, Batangas, and was bound for Valenzuela City.
Inspection revealed that the vehicles were unregistered and carrying an estimated 2,000 boxes of cigarettes believed to be undocumented and illegally imported.
Following the arrest, HPG operatives received indications of the willingness of the supposed owners to release the contraband for a hefty price.
Three people were sent to give the P5 million bribe at Camp Olivas in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga but they were all arrested as it turned out that they fell into an entrapment operation.
The suspects remain in custody as authorities prepare the appropriate charges for filing before the courts.
“This case reinforces our policy that enforcement decisions are governed by law, not influence, and that attempts to corrupt police officers will be met with swift and lawful action,” said Nartatez. (Aaron Recuenco)
