The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) stated that former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. will be included in the investigation regarding the alleged irregularities in the drug haul in Tondo, Manila, in October 2022.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH's Damdaming Bayan on Thursday, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that Azurin is implicated in the buy-bust operation involving dismissed Police Master Sergeant Rodolfo Mayo Jr., a former member of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group.
He further emphasized that the conspiracy in the case encompasses all ranks, from Sergeant to Lieutenant, Major, Colonel, General, and even the PNP Chief.
"It is in our investigation that Gen. Azurin was aware of the entire proceedings beforehand. Kasi may instruction siya na dahil pinakawalan niyo 'yan, hulihin niyo ulit," Remulla stated.
"Pati siya [Gen. Azurin] iimbestigahan rin. Kasi may direct testimony and text exchange between [Ex-PDEA Chief] Wilkins Villanueva and Gen. Azurin, informing him na ‘kailangan ayusin mo ‘to’. Ang solusyon nila ay gumawa pa ng isa pang fake na buy-bust doon sa Quiapo bridge," he added.
However, since Azurin is already retired, he cannot be subjected to administrative charges, but he remains liable for criminal prosecution should evidence confirm his involvement in the irregular operation.
Earlier, the PNP rejected Remulla’s assertions of a “grand conspiracy” allegedly orchestrated by those in authority to hide the illegal activities involving their ranks.
The PNP expressed their willingness to cooperate in the investigation to ensure that the police officers involved will be held accountable.
Authorities have previously ordered the arrest of 30 police officers, including two generals, linked to the PHP 6.7 billion shabu haul.
They face multiple charges, such as evidence planting, delaying case filings, tampering with evidence, violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2022, and other related offenses.
At present, the PNP has placed 22 active-duty police officers linked to the case under restrictive custody and has established a task force to track down the remaining individuals involved.
"May taskforce na si Gen. Marbil para makuha lahat ng mga accused at lahat [ng] may warrant of arrest, sabi niya within this week daw makukuha niya lahat," said Remulla.
Remulla mentioned that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will develop a case to be filed against the individuals involved, which will render their case non-bailable, noting that charges for collusion and conspiracy have not yet been filed.
