By Nancy Carvajal
Contrary to reports, the chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the Philippine National Police volunteered to be relieved from his post while investigation on the alleged robbery and extortion attempt of his underlings from a group of Chinese businessmen is ongoing.
Politiko saw a letter written by Police Colonel Hansel Marantan to CIDG director Police Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr. seeking his relief “to avoid speculations that the undersigned will influence the result of the investigation.’’
“The undersigned would like to request for IMMEDIATE RELIEF as Regional Chief of the CIDG Regional Field Unit NCR to give way to the ongoing investigation,” Marantan said
Caramat announced on Thursday (February 16) the relief of Marantan and 12 officers of CIDG-NCR while investigation on their alleged robbery and extortion attempt is underway.
A group of Chinese nationals lodged a complaint with the office PNP deputy chief for administration Police Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia questioning the operation conducted by the CIDG-NCR on March 13.
The Chinese nationals claimed that the CIDG operatives started arresting people at one of their homes because some neighbors reportedly complained about the noise. They were also accused of illegal gambling.
The businessmen claimed that the cops confiscated jewelry during the operation, including a Patek Philippe and a Richard Mille watch, a Louis Vuitton bag and a vault with P3-million cash.
The Iskooper said the misleading information on Marantan’s alleged relief might be linked to an operation to sabotage his chances of succeeding PNP chief General Rodolfo Azurin Jr., who’s set to retire in April when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56 years old unless his tour of duty is extended by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“Although lower in rank compared to other possible contenders of PNP chief, Marantan is considered a dark horse,” the Iskooper said.
Other contenders for the top PNP post reportedly include: Deputy Chief for Operations Lt. General Jonnel Estomo and Deputy Chief for Administration Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia and the Chief of Directorial Staff, Lt. Gen. Mike Dubria.
Earlier this month, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla awarded Marantan with the “Medalya ng Kagitingan” for implementing the search warrant on the residence of beleaguered Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. in the province.
