PNP-IAS recommends to dismiss 1 cop, demote 10 others over 2021 PNP-PDEA ‘misencounter’

The Philippine National Police-Internal Affairs Service (IAS) has recommended the dismissal from service of a cop and demotion of 10 others due to violations in the 'misencounter' with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents last year.

According to a report of Super Radyo dzBB’s Mark Makalalad on Thursday, Police Corporal Alvin Borja was recommended for dismissal as he was seen shooting an agent and an informant.

In September 2021, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) filed a homicide complaint with the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Borja for the death of PDEA agent Rankin Gano.

The IAS recommended one-star demotion for the 10 police officers for direct assault and oppression.

Out of the 41 involved personnel, only 11 have been recommended for sanctions, according to the report.

On February 24, 2021, elements of the PNP and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency personnel engaged in a shootout in front of a fast food chain along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City.

At least four people were killed.

Both agencies said they were conducting anti-drug operations at the time.

The NBI already filed criminal charges before the DOJ in connection with the deadly shootout between policemen and anti-narcotics operatives.

The charges filed against 12 Quezon City cops and four PDEA personnel include homicide, attempted homicide, direct assault, falsification of official documents, robbery, and conniving with or consenting to evasion. — RSJ, GMA News