Some 357 policemen suspected of being involved in the illegal drug trade are being given the option to retire from the service, Philippine National Police Chief Archie Gamboa said Tuesday.
“I said if you don’t want to embarrass yourself if you are guilty and you think you will not pass those who will evaluate you, and if you want peace of mind, then we offer you optional retirement,” Gamboa said.
“You will have no case. After the evaluation…if you’re not cleared we will pursue a case against you. We will apply the full force of the law to you.”
As of Monday, 14 policemen had opted to avail themselves of the retirement offer, Gamboa said.
“It doesn’t mean you’re off the hook already. Don’t return to the illegal drug trade or we will put you in another list.”
Gamboa last week ordered a fresh reshuffle of key positions in the police force and a surprise drug test of senior officers.