Cotabato City — The Cotabato City Police Office (CCPO) defended its personnel following the circulation of a controversial CCTV footage showing several policemen allegedly assaulting a Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency–BARMM agent who had been arrested in a sextortion complaint.
In a statement, CCPO clarified that the Nov. 11 operation was legitimate and was led by the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit–BARMM (RACU–BAR), with support from Police Station 2. The operation stemmed from a cyber-sextortion complaint filed by a 22-year-old woman against the PDEA agent, known only by his alias “Ron.”
Authorities executed an entrapment operation in a local motel where the suspect was arrested after allegedly threatening his former partner. According to investigators, “Ron” had attempted to coerce the woman into having sex or paying “protection money” in exchange for not releasing her nude photos and videos.
However, the City Prosecutor’s Office subsequently dismissed the charges against the PDEA agent due to insufficient evidence.
Amid public outrage over the viral CCTV clip showing policemen purportedly beating the suspect during the arrest, CCPO confirmed that all officers involved were immediately placed under administrative investigation. They were relieved from their posts and placed under restrictive custody while the probe continues.
The police office cited provisions in the PNP Operational Procedures allowing the use of reasonable force if a suspect resists arrest—but emphasized that force must always be proportionate and lawful.
CCPO assured the public that accountability will be upheld, stressing that any misconduct will not be tolerated within their ranks.
“Discipline and responsibility are paramount in our service. Should the investigation confirm any wrongdoing, appropriate sanctions will be imposed,” the statement read.
The case continues to draw attention, as residents and watchdogs call for transparency both in the investigation of the officers and in the handling of the sextortion allegations initially lodged against the PDEA personnel.