Metro Manila’s top cop as well as the head of the Anti-Cybercrime Group were temporarily relieved from their posts for 10 days starting yesterday following an extortion complaint in connection with a recent raid at an alleged POGO scam hub in Manila, the Philippine National Police said.
National Capital Regional Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia and ACG chief Maj. Gen. Ronnie Cariaga were administratively relieved from their current positions, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said.
She said Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Tamondong will take over NCRPO while Col. Vina Guzman will head ACG as officers-in-charge.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil issued the relief order after four Chinese citizens questioned the police raid at the alleged scam hub in Malate on Oct. 30.
One of the Chinese nationals complained the cops attempted to extort P1 million from each of them in exchange for their freedom.
The Chinese nationals, in their letter of complaint to the National Police Commission, also sought the preventive suspension of Hernia to prevent him from influencing the probe.
At least 69 foreigners were apprehended during the raid but were later released as they could not be legally detained.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission likewise denied any involvement in the raid, saying it was “never consulted nor informed regarding this operation.”
Hernia on Monday denied the extortion allegations.
“NCRPO Director MGen. Sidney Hernia categorically denied allegations of extortion made against him and 14 other NCRPO officers, describing them as ‘absurd and unfounded,’” the NCRPO said.
Hernia said the NCRPO is open to an investigation and that he will not tolerate wrongdoings within their ranks.
“This is a chance for the truth to prevail, and I am confident that the investigation will reveal that all procedures followed were lawful and proper. The NCRPO remains steadfast in its mission to combat criminality and protect the public from fraudulent activities. We stand ready to clear our names and reinforce our dedication to integrity and service,” he said.
