MPD denies ‘tanim shabu’ scheme

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila Police District (MPD) yesterday denied the existence of “tanim shabu” scheme or planting of illegal drugs in the vehicles of the guests of a hotel in the city.

Chief Superintendent Carlo Manuel, head of the MPD public information office, said there is no basis for the text messages and posts on social media, warning the public against parking attendants of the hotel.

“Valet attendants of the hotel plant shabu in the compartment of the guests’ vehicles and tip off their police accomplices,” the post read.

Police then conduct a drug sting near the establishment, which usually leads to arrest, the post added.

Reports said the drug charges would be dropped in exchange for up to P500,000. 

MPD Station 5 commander Superintendent Igmedio Bernaldez said they have coordinated with Manila Hotel security chief Willy Franco, who denied the reports.

“This is fake news, which aims to besmirch the reputation of the MPD and the Manila Hotel,” Bernaldez told The STAR.

National Capital Region Police Office chief Director Guillermo Eleazar said the scheme is a hoax.

 “We investigated the report but there is no record of any complaint with the Manila Hotel nor the Manila police,” Eleazar said.

He urged the complainant, if there is any, to come out and file a formal complaint with the police. – Non Alquitran