Cop tagged in Korean businessman’s kidnap charged

MANILA, Philippines - A policeman allegedly involved in the kidnap of a South Korean businessman in Central Luzon has been charged and placed under restrictive custody, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said yesterday.

The policeman, assigned at PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Group (AIDG) is restricted to Camp Crame while an investigation is ongoing.

“He was placed under restrictive custody so he is available for investigation anytime. A case was also filed against him by the Anti-Illegal Drugs Group,” Dela Rosa said in a press briefing.

Aside from the policeman, a civilian and several John Does were also named as respondents, he added.

Dela Rosa declined to name the police officer, whose rank is Senior Police Officer 3.

The businessman, identified as Jee Ick-Joo, has been missing since he was kidnapped from his home in Angeles City, Pampanga on Oct. 18, 2016. The kidnapping was caught by a neighbor’s surveillance camera.

Dela Rosa said he is not immediately passing judgement on the police officer as he is still waiting for the result of the probe.

“If it’s proven that it was him, he doesn’t deserve any day in this organization,” he said.

Dela Rosa wanted to talk to the victim’s wife personally after he learned she is seeking his help.

“I am aware of her husband’s case but it was only yesterday (Sunday) I read her appeal,” he said, adding that he hopes Jee is still alive.

The couple’s helper, Marisa Dawis, was kidnapped along with Jee but later released. She said two men looted the house and accused Jee of being involved in the illegal drug trade.

Jee’s wife, Choi Kyung-jin, said she gave P5 million as ransom to the kidnappers but they demanded P4.5 million more. It was then she wrote a letter to President Duterte and Dela Rosa, asking for help.