Remember the viral video of a warrantless police search in a house in Taguig City early this year?

Eight of the 10 policemen involved in the viral video were dismissed from the service while another cop, then a substation commander in Taguig, was punished with one rank demotion, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) disclosed on Monday, June 9.

NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin said the decision was made after four months of a thorough investigation wherein all the involved cops were given the opportunity to defend themselves as part of the due process.

“The NCRPO will stand firm and uncompromising on ensuring police accountability within the ranks. Let it be known: there will be no second chances for police scalawags,” said Aberin, adding that the zero tolerance against erring cops is in line with the strategic direction laid down by national police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III.

On Feb. 10, the video of the police raid in a house in Taguig went viral, with the cops accused of repeatedly doing such modus in the area.

Based on the probe, the incident happened on Feb. 9 when some personnel from Substation 5, Taguig City Police Station forcibly entered the complainants’ residence without a valid warrant.

The policemen were accused of committing physical abuse, and allegedly stole over ₱76,000.00 in cash and several electronic devices.

The complainants were then forcibly taken, deceived, and allegedly coerced into signing a document to drop charges.

Aberin immediately ordered the relief of all the policemen involved.

And after four months of investigation, Aberin said they found sufficient pieces of evidence to dismiss eight of them for Grave Misconduct, Less Grave Misconduct, and Conduct Unbecoming of a Police Officer.

One officer was exonerated after being found not liable, according to Aberin.

He said the dismissal of the eight policemen and the demotion of a police official should serve as a lesson that they will not tolerate wrongdoings.

“That is why I consistently remind our police personnel about the importance of going ‘Back to Basics’—strictly following proper procedures and established protocols,” said Aberin.

“My five key reminders emphasize: follow what is written in the Police Operational Procedures (POP), because this serves as our guide in all operations, do what is right at all times, and not involve in any illegal activities. By doing so, we ensure that our actions remain lawful, proper, and respectful of the rights of our citizens,” he added.

Source: Manila Bulletin.