The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday assured the public that its prosecutorial arms “will move quickly and swiftly” against individuals involved in the 990-kg shabu” drug bust in Manila last year.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla made the statement after the DOJ panel of prosecutors and members of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) held a clarificatory meeting on Feb. 15, 2024.
Remulla stressed that the meeting is in line with Department Circular No. 20, s. 2023, ordering the prosecutors to take a proactive role in the investigation of crimes, particularly in case build-up where they may require, assist otherwise cooperate with the complainants and law enforcement agencies to determine whether a crime has been committed or if there is prima facie evidence to secure a conviction based on available information.
The DOJ chief said the discussion mainly focused on coming up with a concrete, credible, and airtight case against dishonest individuals linked to anomalous acts during the anti-illegal drugs operation, where former Police Master Sergeant Rodolfo Mayo Jr. was arrested for his involvement in the drug haul.
“I strongly urge the panel to work closely with the concerned law enforcement agencies and to thoroughly study all pieces of evidence to ensure that there will be no let-up in this case,” Remulla said.
“As the prosecution arm of the government, it is but imperative that we uphold the Rule of Law in the most efficient and expeditious way and at the same time within the bounds of truth, fairness and justice,” he stressed.