10 SPD cops linked to abduction of Chinese nationals dismissed from service

Ten cops of the Southern Police District (SPD) who were linked in the alleged abduction of Chinese nationals have been dismissed from the service, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said Wednesday

In a statement, NCRPO chief Police Major General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the following policemen have been dismissed from the service:

• Police Lieutenant Colonel Jolet T Guevara
• Police Major Jason D Quijana
• Police Major John Patrick O Magsalos
• Police Captain Sherwin C Limbauan
• Police Executive Master Sergeant Arsenio K Valle
• Police Staff Sergeant Mark J Democrito
• Police Staff Sergeant Danilo L Desder
• Police Staff Sergeant Roy G Pioquinto
• Police Staff Sergeant Christian C Corpuz
• Police Corporal Rexes U Claveria

Nartatez said they committed violations during their implementation of a search warrant at a condominium in Paranaque City on September 16, 2023.

These violations, which ranged from robbery and planting of evidence, also include:

• Robbery – For taking, with intent to gain, the personal properties not subject of the Search Warrant (PhP27 million, Rolex watch, other personal belongings);
• Planting of evidence – Two firearms and two magazines were intentionally planted to appear as recovered evidence;
• Abuse in the service of search warrant – Operating team went beyond the limits set forth in the said warrant by seizing properties/items not described in the warrant
• Violation of domicile – Operating team entered rooms not specified in the search warrant;
• Perjury – Making false statement while under oath;
• Falsification of public documents – The P27 million was deliberately not included in the inventory;
• Obstruction of Justice – Unplugging and destruction of the CCTV/DVR and the body worn camera was intentionally deactivated
• Violation of police operational procedures and other directives.

Aside from 10 who were dismissed, seven cops were demoted while 17 are facing months of suspension due to the incident.

Also, Police Brigadier General Roderick D. Mariano, former director of the Southern Police District (SPD), and Police Colonel Charlie Cabradilla, former SPD comptroller head, will be subjected to administrative disciplinary proceedings upon issuance of presidential clearance.

Some of the concerned cops were detained after being cited in contempt during a House inquiry on the incident.—RF, GMA Integrated News