The Philippine National Police (PNP) has relieved a female officer from duty and placed her under restrictive custody amid allegations of her involvement in a major drug bust in Laos. This action was taken on October 13, 2026, as part of an ongoing investigation.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez confirmed that the police agency is collaborating with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to ascertain the facts surrounding the case. Nartatez stated, "As part of the inter-agency task group, the PNP is working closely with the PDEA and other concerned agencies to establish the facts."
Key Figures and Allegations Unveiled
Police officers are duty-bound to uphold the law and protect the public, and any act that runs contrary to this responsibility will be dealt with accordingly.
Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, PNP Chief
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has identified 11 individuals of interest, including a former member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority Parliament, linked to the seizure of 521 kilograms of shabu intended for the Philippines. The drugs were reportedly sourced from the Golden Triangle, a notorious region for drug production.
Among those named is Police Executive Master Sergeant Aileen Jayne Manalo Mendoza, accused of facilitating the arrival of the drug-laden aircraft at Manila Domestic Airport. The investigation was triggered by the arrest of a Filipino, known as 'Fajad,' in Laos.
Nartatez emphasized that the PNP will not tolerate any involvement from its personnel in illegal activities. He reiterated that any evidence of wrongdoing by the officer will lead to appropriate criminal and administrative actions.
The PNP has asserted that the investigation is based purely on evidence, distancing itself from any political motivations.