The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday stood by the legality of its recent inspection and confiscation of several luxury vehicles linked to fugitive ex-lawmaker Elizaldy ‘Zaldy’ Co.
In a statement released on January 11, PNP Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the actions were backed by valid and existing warrants, and all the steps they took followed due process and complied with applicable laws.
The PNP through its Highway Patrol Group and Southern Police District carried out the seizure order with personnel from the Bureau of Customs and Land Transportation Office on Thursday evening, January 8.
“The operation was in compliance with an order from proper authorities. We want to assure the public that all actions of the Philippine National Police are legal and in accordance with the law,” Nartatez said, responding to issues raised by lawyer Ruy Rondain, Co’s legal counsel.
Rondain threatened to file charges against law enforcement authorities, who confiscated several high-end automobiles parked at a condominium unit in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig—some of which he acknowledged belonged to Co. The lawyer claimed the seizure was illegal.
“It was totally abusive. Just wait until we file a case. Abusive. I asked them for their authority, they said it was just an order. Is that even allowed? That is state abuse,” Rondain said mostly in Tagalog in a radio interview.
Co is under investigation over his role in the multibillion-peso flood control corruption scandal. He is among the many personalities charged with graft and remains in hiding.
“From the start, we already committed to provide assistance in the investigation and enforcement of all legal orders in relation to the flood control issue. The involvement of your PNP in the operation was part of that commitment,” Nartatez said.
The PNP is also actively involved in ongoing operations to hold all personalities linked to the flood control scam accountable, including those who have been ordered arrested by the courts.
Nartatez said this is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to ensure that law enforcement operations are conducted with full transparency, due process, and respect for the rights of all parties involved.
