NCRPO cop tests positive for drugs

MANILA -- A police corporal assigned at the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) tested positive for illegal drug use.

In a press briefing on

Tuesday, NCRPO acting chief, Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas said Cpl. Anthony Romano, who is assigned at the NCRPO’s intelligence division, tested positive

during a random drug test conducted among 78 personnel last January 14.

Sinas said Romano, who was found to be using drugs for two to three years, was disarmed and will undergo a summary proceeding.

He will face charges for misconduct based on Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and will be recommended dismissed from the service by the NCRPO’s regional Internal Affairs Service (IAS).

Citing Romano’s confession, Sinas said another cop was with him during the pot session. Sinas, however, refused to identify Romano’s companion.

During tactical interrogation, Romano identified the cop as his friend and “usual companion in their pot session.”

Romano revealed that their pot session houses were in Lower Bicutan, Taguig City and in front of Camp Crame.

Sinas assured that the policeman, who is assigned in Camp Crame, would be under strict monitoring.

Romano was also found to be having pot sessions with civilians and cops who went absent without leave (AWOL).

Sinas said a follow-up investigation will be conducted and random drug testing will continue amid the strengthening of internal cleansing among their ranks.

“Random drug testing in all camps and stations of the NCRPO will continue,” Sinas said. (PNA)