Raps filed vs 4 policemen, retired cop for robbery in Zamboanga City

POLICE probers have filed robbery charges against four active policemen and a former cop allegedly involved in a recent robbery in Zamboanga City.

The Zamboanga Peninsula regional police office said the filing of the charges serves as a warning to all policemen that any misconduct will not be tolerated in the police force.

The five were charged with robbery in band before the Zamboanga City Prosecutors Office last Wednesday, the PNP said.

They were identified as Lieutenant Lt. Ariel Jolatoria, Senior Master Sergeant Alnajer Ynawat, Staff Sergeant Edcel Nicolas, Patrolman Rayan Apostol, and former Staff Sergeant Bobby Judan.

Earlier reports said the five, who are now in police custody, allegedly stole P1.8 million in cash from the safety vaults of businessman Al-Ghabid Abdul in Zamboanga City Wednesday last week.

PNP Zamboanga Peninsula regional police office spokeswoman Lt. Col. Helen Galvez said they are taking the allegations of misconduct against the five seriously.

Galvez said the office is also pursuing administrative charges against the four active policemen for grave misconduct. If found guilty, the four could be dismissed from the service.

“PRO9 (Police Regional Office 9) would like to emphasize that this incident does not reflect the overall commitment and dedication of the vast majority of our police personnel, who work tirelessly to serve and protect our community,” said Galvez.

“Instances of misconduct such as these are taken seriously and will not be tolerated. We assure the public that we will continue to work diligently to uncover the truth surrounding this robbery incident and bring those responsible to justice,” added Galvez.

Galvez reiterated that Zamboanga regional police “remains fully committed to maintaining the public’s trust and confidence in our law enforcement agency.”