PNP says earlier inclusion of Espino in Duterte drug list not reason for ambush
September 12, 2019
The Philippine National Police ( PNP) on Thursday said the inclusion of former Pangasinan governor and congressman Amado Espino Jr in President Rodrigo Duterte's drug watchlist is not the reason behind his ambush.
"Right now, we still don't have information on the motive behind the crime but we are looking at all angles in relation to his previous post as the governor of Pangasinan and his campaign against illegal drugs," said Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac, the PNP spokesman, in an interview with reporters.
"His name was included in the PRRD ( President Rodrigo Roa Duterte) list but then removed so we believe his leadership as former governor was good and he helped us in our campaign in illegal drugs, There may be syndicates who got affected by his campaign... that's only one possibility and we are looking at all angles," he added.
It can be recalled that Espino was included in Duterte's list of politicians involved in illegal drugs. Duterte later apologized for including Espino.
"So far, we did not receive any report that could possibly include him in illegal drugs," said Banac.
Banac urged those who have information on the incident to report to the authorities.
Banac assured the public crime incidence continues to decline despite Espino's ambush.
"But we remain alert and vigilant to stop this kind of incident," he said.
"There's nothing to be worried about as the peace and order situation in our country remains under control," he added.
Espino was ambushed Wednesday afternoon at San Carlos City in Pangasinan by around 10 unidentified suspects which resulted in the death of one of his police escort.
Police Colonel Redrico Maranan, the Pangasinan provincial director, said the politician is in good condition with his two men while one is under observation.
A dragnet operation and a special investigation task group (SITG) was conducted to arrest the suspects. Ella Dionisio/DMS
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