Pubdate: Sun, 10 Oct 2004
Source: Daily Tribune, The (Philippines)
Copyright: 2004 The Tribune Publishing Co., Inc.
Contact:  http://www.tribune.net.ph/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2973
Author: Amita O. Legaspi
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?236 (Corruption - Outside U.S.)

RAPS FILED VS 3 PDEA MEN FOR KIDNAP OF WOMAN TRADER

Charges with kidnap-for-ransom and serious illegal detention were filed 
against three operatives of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for 
allegedly abducting a businesswoman last May.

Charged before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) were chief Insp. 
Joselito Clarito, PO1 Antonio de los Reyes and PO3 Antonio Romero, all 
reportedly assigned to the PDEA Metro Manila Regional Office-Special 
Enforcement Group.

Complainant Ronalyn Manatad said on the morning of May 16, she and her 
friend, Vicky Lustero, were walking along Quezon Avenue on their way to the 
Philippine Children's Medical when the respondents abducted her.

She added at gunpoint, she was allegedly pushed into a waiting L-300 van 
which the respondents and a certain PO1 Juelito Borja boarded.

She said while they were cruising Elliptical Road, the respondents 
allegedly called up her half-brother, Edwin Silvio, and demanded P200,000 
ransom for her release.

After hours of travelling, the respondents allegedly brought her to PDEA 
office where she was surprised to learn she was being charged with 
violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 
2002.

State prosecutors recommended the filing of the charges after finding 
probable cause against the respondents.
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