CITY of San Fernando, Pampanga – Two members of the Pampanga Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) were arrested for allegedly robbing a printing shop in Mabalacat City, Pampanga on Wednesday night, July 16.
Investigation said five unidentified armed men wearing black jackets, bonnets, and face masks barged inside the establishment in Barangay Tabun at around 10 p.m.
The owner and companion were accused of involvement in illegal drugs and the closed-circuit television camera system was dismantled.
They were hogtied and the suspects seized nine assorted high-end smartphones and fled on board a black Toyota Vios with no license plates.
The victims freed themselves and reported the incident to the police.
A follow-up operation resulted in the recovery of the getaway vehicle in Bamban, Tarlac.
Police recovered a document that linked the vehicle to members of the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit-Pampanga Police Provincial Office.
Lawmen coordinated with the unit and three suspects – the two lawmen and a civilian – were arrested and the stolen items were recovered.
PRO-3 Director Police Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. denounced the suspects and assured the public that their internal cleansing program remains firm and uncompromising.
“We do not and will never tolerate abuse of power by anyone in our ranks,” Peñones said. “This incident only strengthens our resolve to cleanse our organization of erring personnel and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”
The suspects have been charged with robbery with intimidation and attempted kidnapping and face administrative cases before the Philippine National Police.
Their two remaining civilian accomplices are the subjects of a manhunt operation.