Philippines: Police general, 30 cops sacked over rogue operation, ₱85-million theft

Manila: At least 31 police officers, including a general, was sacked following what authorities dubbed as a "rogue" operation by its operatives.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered the immediate removal of Eastern Police District (EPD) Director Brig. Gen. Villamor Tuliao and the entire District Special Operations Unit (DSOU), following an unauthorised operation that allegedly led to the theft of ₱85 million (about $1.5 million) from a Chinese businessman.

The crackdown comes after an April 2 incident in Las Piñas City, where eight DSOU officers are now facing criminal and administrative charges, including "robbery, illegal detention, and unlawful arrest".

All eight DSOU members are currently in detention, as per the Philippine News Agency.

Marbil emphasised a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, declaring, “No second chances.”

He also called for those involved to be summarily dismissed from the service and permanently barred from holding any government position.

"This is no longer just about rogue officers — it is a failure of leadership,” Marbil said.

“When discipline collapses, it begins at the top. Leaders will be held to the highest standards of accountability.”

He further warned that any police commander found neglecting their responsibility to maintain discipline would be held accountable under the doctrine of command responsibility.

“If the director is found liable, he will never again be entrusted with any position of leadership,” he stated.

A full investigation has been launched by the PNP’s Internal Affairs Service.

According to Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin, chief of the National Capital Regional Police Office, the officers involved violated multiple protocols.

These include failing to coordinate with the local police station, not wearing body cameras as required, and not securing proper clearance from their immediate supervisors before the operation.

The Chinese businessman and his relatives reported that the officers disabled their closed-circuit television system, forcibly opened vaults, and seized cash in Philippine pesos, US dollars, and Malaysian ringgits, along with jewellery, electronic gadgets, and other personal belongings.