8 CIDG personnel arrested for alleged robbery in Pampanga

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines January 27) — The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested eight of its personnel who were involved in a robbery incident in a subdivision in Angeles City, Pampanga.

In a statement, CIDG Regional Field Unit – III said they received on Wednesday at around 1 a.m. a report about an “ongoing robbery allegedly perpetrated by a group of armed men all in civilian clothes who identified themselves as CIDG personnel.”

Authorities intercepted three men with firearms moving out of the victims’ house as well as five others inside the property. They also rescued seven Chinese nationals and a Filipino helper.

The arrested CIDG personnel claimed they were conducting a buy-bust operation, but investigators found some of the victims' belongings, including cash amounting to P300,000 and some US dollar bills, inside the vehicle of the suspects.

Authorities also seized other pieces of evidence, including a caliber .45 pistol, during the arrest. Investigators then found out that the suspects were members of the CIDG assigned to the Anti-Organized Crime Unit.

In a press conference, CIDG Director Major General Ignatius Ferro said the arrested CIDG personnel are detained at the CIDG Angeles City Filed Unit while a complaint for robbery is being prepared for filing. He also assured the arrested CIDG personnel will be disciplined and face administrative charges.