TACLOBAN CITY -- Nine individuals who introduced themselves as members of the International Police Organization or Interpol were arrested in Maasin City, Southern Leyte on Thursday, Nov. 17.
The suspects were identified as Michael Garlan, 42, a resident of Montalban, Rizal; Michael Icalabis, 45, a resident of Rodriguez, Rizal; Jacky Ragaodao, 19, from Quezon City; Terzo Mernizo, 49, from Rodriguez, Rizal; Harold Castillejo, 30, from Quezon City; Jose Sibayan Castillejo, 55, also from Quezon City; and Jerry Alvarez, 44, Jeter Bandibas, 23, and Antonio Lolo Jr., 50, all residents of Barangay Asuncion, Maasin City.
Initial Investigation disclosed that Ragaodao entered the cashier’s booth of Kojac Emission Center and interrupted the legal operation of the establishment by recording a video using a cellular phone.
He introduced himself as a police officer and said that he was deployed by a four-star general in Metro Manila.
The suspects reportedly caused alarm and panic among residents.
They were wearing military outfits and tactical sling bags.
Suspects were arrested for usurpation of authority after they could not present any legal basis and documents to the responding police personnel about the legality of their operation to install a public advisory in a tarpaulin bearing “No Trespassing Private Property Declared" in the facility.
They were brought to the Maasin City Police Station for further investigation and proper disposition.