3 COPS IN CAVITE HOME ROBBERY CHARGED, PLACED UNDER RESTRICTIVE CUSTODY

CAMP BRIG. GEN. VICENTE LIM, Calamba, Laguna – Robbery in band charges were filed against three police officers who have been tagged as suspects in the robbery att Grand Centennial Homes, Bgy. Magdalo-Potol, Kawit, Cavite on February 13.

In a press conference in this camp Wednesday, March 6, 2024, Police Regional Office 4-A (Calabarzon) Director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas identified the three as Police Senior Master Sgt. Jhon Paolo Maigue Mellona, a pre-charge investigator at the Cavite Provincial Intelligence and Detective Management Unit; Police Senior Master Sgt. Reynaldo Andrada Quilit Jr., from the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Cavite Police Provincial Office, and Police Corporal Lynard Pastrana Pareja, of the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, Laguna Police Provincial Office.

The three policemen, along with two civilian cohorts and four John Does, were charged with robbery in band at the Cavite Prosecutor’s Office in Imus City on Tuesday.

According to Lucas, an investigation showed that the suspects, who were wearing black jackets, gray long sleeves, caps and face mask, forcibly entered two residential houses at Grand Centennial Homes and at gunpoint hogtied the helpers, bodyguards, and security guard of an Indonesian pogo supervisor.

The suspects then carted away valuable items, including cellphones, identification documents, a short firearm, and an undisclosed amount of cash. 

Lucas condemned the misconduct within the police force.

He said the three police officers were relieved from their respective units and were placed under restrictive custody at the Regional Headquarters Holding Area Section (RPHAS).

The Calabarzon top cop also directed the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division, in coordination with the Regional Internal Affairs Service, to conduct a parallel administrative investigation into the case.

“I reiterate my clear stance against misconduct by any member of our force. We condemn such actions in the strongest terms and assure the public that these officers, if found guilty, will meet the full arms of the law,” Lucas said.

He added: “We will ensure the safety and security of our community and we shall have zero tolerance for any form of criminal activity involving members of our police force.”