Two policemen linked to drugs share ordeal
CAMP Crame’s investigation on police officers who allegedly accepted protection money from drug lords has hurt Luke (real name withheld), a non-commissioned police officer, and his family.
“It was not easy to be investigated, especially on my alleged involvement of illegal drugs,” he said.
But being away from his family during the course of the investigation was what pained the intelligence officer the most.
“The only thing left for you is your own family. Their safety and security as well. You need to be strong at all times with this kind of ordeal. I know
Luke and Danny (not their real names) are among the 200 police personnel who were relieved from PRO 7 and transferred to Camp Crame for an investigation
God has its own purpose and I always believe in Him,” he said.
For Danny (real name withheld), another intelligence operative, the order instructing him to report to Camp Crame stunned him.
“I made a lot sacrifices in the fight against illegal drugs. In fact, the campaign had claimed the lives of informers and civilian volunteers long before Rodrigo Duterte became president,” he said in Cebuano. “All my work have gone to waste because I was transferred.”
Luke and Danny denied protecting drug lords. Sun.Star Cebu is withholding their real identities pending the result of the investigation.
They were among the 200 personnel who were relieved from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 and transferred to the national headquarters between July and October for an investigation.
Danny said he supports the “internal cleansing” initiated by Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa, but added that superior officers should not give favors to their favorite junior officers.
“The problem cannot be addressed right there and then. Many have been swallowed by the system. In fairness, some policemen who are under investigation are good cops who are victims of politics and envy,” he said in Cebuano. Victim of politics, envy
Two policemen linked to drugs share ordeal
Some of the officers were named by drug personalities who surrendered to police.
Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, PRO 7 director, said the Internal Affairs Service is investigating the officers.
For Luke, defending himself seems futile.
“You cannot please everybody. It seems that you are guilty by publicity already. It doesn’t matter how many times you give your explanations, still, there are mixed reactions,” he said in Cebuano.
The officer said he supports the Duterte administration’s fight against illegal drugs and cleaning the police ranks of scalawags.
“On the positive side, it’s better this way to have an investigation. We need transparency. I do believe on the efforts of the government in fighting illegal drugs,” Luke said.
He hopes he’ll find closure after the investigation.
“You need to redeem yourself again,” said Luke.
Faith
Danny, for his part, would still like to work with the intelligence unit.
“I was never discouraged (by the investigation) because I know I have done nothing wrong. I have my friends and the people I have served who continue to care for me. They include me in their prayers. That’s what gives me strength. That’s why I’m not afraid,” he said in Cebuano.
He said everyone should help Duterte in the drug war.
Danny is confident his track record in the campaign against illegal drugs will clear his name, but he foresees the investigation to take long.
Danny said the police and military cannot destroy the illegal drug trade without the help of the public, adding that the six-year term of Duterte is enough to cripple the syndicates if all are vigilant and committed to change.