NCRPO chief says extortion complaints 'absurd, unfounded'

The National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) on Tuesday said its chief, Police Major General Sidney Hernia, has denied the extortion allegations against him and 14 more cops after their raid in Malate, Manila.

“NCRPO Director MGen. Sidney Hernia categorically denied allegations of extortion made against him and 14 other NCRPO officers, describing them as ‘’absurd and unfounded,’” the NCRPO said in a statement.

Hernia said the NCRPO is open to an investigation and he will not tolerate wrongdoings within their ranks.

“This is a chance for the truth to prevail, and I am confident that the investigation will reveal that all procedures followed were lawful and proper,” Hernia said.

“The NCRPO remains steadfast in its mission to combat criminality and protect the public from fraudulent activities. We stand ready to clear our names and reinforce our dedication to integrity and service,” he added.

Four Chinese citizens, who were arrested by the Philippine National Police - Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) during the raid on alleged online scammers, went to the National Police Commission to seek help, according to GMA Integrated News' Dano Tingcungco’s report on “24 Oras” on Monday.

In their complaint addressed to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, the complainants said the arrest was illegal and the arresting officers did not read their rights before them.

One of the foreigners also said that the cops even tried to extort P1 million from each of them in exchange for a lawyer who is allegedly connected to the higher-ups at the NCRPO and for their freedom.

Aside from the administrative charges, the Chinese complainants also want preventive suspension to be issued upon Hernia to avoid possible influences on the investigation. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News