Manila: National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia and Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) chief Maj. Gen. Ronnie Francis Cariaga have been administratively relieved from their positions for a duration of 10 days starting Thursday. This decision follows a recent raid on an alleged scam hub in Manila.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing held at Camp Crame, PNP Information chief and spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo disclosed that the National Headquarters had ordered the temporary relief of Hernia and Cariaga to facilitate an impartial investigation. The investigation is being led by Lt. Gen. Michael John Dubria, the current office-in-charge of the PNP and deputy chief for operations. Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Tamondong and Col. Vina Guzman have been appointed as officers-in-charge of the NCRPO and ACG, respectively.

The investigation follows concerns raised over the operation conducted on October 29 by the NCRPO and ACG at Century Pe
ak Tower. Allegations have surfaced regarding extortion and the tampering of CCTV cameras by PNP personnel. Reports indicate that three PNP-ACG operatives moved and covered the CCTV cameras in a hallway to avoid being seen while walking shirtless due to extreme heat, as the building’s elevator and air conditioning systems were turned off.

Fajardo mentioned that Cariaga has ordered the immediate relief of the three involved PNP-ACG officers. She emphasized that no police officer has the right to alter any evidence, including CCTV footage, which is critical to the investigation. Fajardo clarified that the administrative relief of the two senior officers is not a punitive measure but rather a step to ensure a transparent investigation.

She further assured that the PNP remains committed to transparency and will not yield to external pressures. The administrative relief is meant to address the accusations and allegations that have surfaced in various forums. Fajardo also stated that Hernia and Cariaga could retu
rn to their positions if the investigation finds no negligence in their supervision and adherence to police operational procedures.

Maj. Gen. Hernia has denied the allegations of extortion against him and 14 other officers, describing them as unfounded. He has urged accusers to present evidence in the appropriate forum and has expressed confidence in the investigation’s ability to validate the legality of their actions. Hernia affirmed the NCRPO’s commitment to combating criminality and protecting the public from fraudulent activities, reiterating their dedication to integrity and service.

Source: Philippines News Agency