PNP Chief Directs Investigation Into Former Officials Tied to Criminal Networks
Philippine National Police Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has mandated a comprehensive investigation targeting ten former police officials who are reportedly associated with criminal syndicates. The directive, issued on Monday, February 23, 2026, instructs the Intelligence Group and the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group to perform an in-depth validation of the allegations.
Information from DILG Triggers Immediate Action
Nartatez revealed that the investigation was initiated after the Department of the Interior and Local Government leadership relayed critical information regarding the dismissed officials. "As soon as we learned this report, I immediately directed our Intelligence Group and the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group to conduct a deep-dive validation," the PNP chief stated emphatically.
In a recent interview, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed that the ten former officials, who held ranks of major and captain, were dismissed from service and have since formed their own criminal organization. Remulla declined to identify the individuals but confirmed that one was dismissed due to rape charges, while another was involved in extortion activities.
Probe to Examine Current Activities and Internal Connections
The investigation will not only scrutinize the former officials' present engagements but will also explore potential links within the police organization. "We are not just looking at their current activities but also who their possible connections inside the organization. We will not stop until we identify every tentacle of these groups," Nartatez affirmed.
He highlighted the significant security risks posed by former personnel who might exploit the tactical knowledge and training acquired during their service. "Even if they are already out of the service, they still carry the tactical knowledge they learned here, and that makes them high-risk," the PNP chief explained.
Consolidating Records and Strengthening Internal Systems
The Philippine National Police is currently consolidating records of the former officials' previous administrative cases to determine whether any "protectors" within the organization may have facilitated their alleged activities before their dismissal.
Beyond the immediate investigation, Nartatez has ordered a thorough reassessment of the PNP's internal monitoring systems to address corruption that could persist even after an officer's retirement or separation from service. As part of ongoing internal cleansing efforts, ethics training and anti-corruption workshops will be intensified, while early detection mechanisms, particularly within sensitive units, will be significantly tightened.
