Five police officers from Pampanga have been relieved from their posts following allegations of their participation in a multi-million peso robbery in Porac town. The Central Luzon police leadership has initiated a high-priority investigation into the incident.
Special Task Group Probes Police Involvement
Central Luzon Police Regional Office Director, Brigadier General Rogelio Peñones, confirmed the development. He stated that he ordered the creation of a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to conduct a thorough probe against the five policemen, who are assigned to the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO).
The case stems from an event on the evening of November 25, 2025. According to initial reports, four masked individuals forcibly entered the home of a contractor and stole P14 million in cash.
"This Was Not an Operation" - Police General
Days after the robbery, intelligence pointed to the possible involvement of the five law enforcers. The group includes a police major, two staff sergeants, and two corporals. Brig. Gen. Peñones was emphatic that the men's actions were criminal, not official.
"This wasn't an operation. Even the pre-operations, they weren't part of it. They really just intended to steal," Peñones told reporters. He added that investigators are also looking into the potential involvement of civilians in the planning or execution of the crime.
PNP Leadership Vows Maximum Penalties
In a strong statement, Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief, Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., promised swift and severe action. He assured the public that the matter would be resolved at the soonest possible time.
"If the investigation result would find them liable, I assure our kababayan that all of them would not only be dismissed from the service, they would also go straight to jail," Nartatez declared. He emphasized that the PNP does not tolerate any wrongdoing, especially under his command.
This case follows another recent investigation ordered by Nartatez against at least six personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for allegedly stealing P13 million in cash evidence from a raid last year.
The PNP chief stressed that he will not allow a small number of erring personnel to tarnish the reputation of the entire organization. He noted that the vast majority of PNP members remain dedicated and morally upright.
"Let this serve as a warning to the few remaining bad eggs that the entire police force will come after you once you compromise the integrity and discipline of the PNP," Nartatez concluded, sending a clear message of internal accountability.
