2 cops, 3 civilians held for drugs in Taguig

MANILA, Philippines — Two policemen allegedly moonlighting as drug dealers and their three civilian cohorts were apprehended in an anti-narcotics operation in Taguig on Saturday.

The police officers, identified only as Dennis and Ralph, who both hold the rank of corporal, were nabbed by operatives of the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group in Barangay Bicutan, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. told reporters.

Prior to their arrest, the two allegedly met with police who posed as drug buyers.

Anti-narcotics operatives recovered from the suspects 100 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu valued at P680,000.

The service firearms of the policemen – two 9mm pistols – identification cards and cellphones were also seized.

The suspects are being held on drug trafficking cases.

Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano condemned the involvement of police in illegal drugs, reiterating the city’s zero-tolerance policy against misconduct in law enforcement.

Cayetano said the incident underscored the need to ensure accountability within law enforcement agencies.

“Those who are sworn to enforce the law must be held to the highest standards,” she said.