Biyaheros get a win as 9 LTO enforcers face extortion raps
A lot of motorcycle riders, especially those on sub-400cc machines, share a common belief whenever they spot a law enforcer on the roadside that these officers see them not as motorists, but as easy money. In rider lingo, they often describe themselves as the gatasan or milking cows of corrupt enforcers looking to make a quick buck.
Ask any biyahero and you’ll likely hear a similar story. They are the truckers and motorists who keep goods moving across the country, and have long complained about being favorite targets of corrupt law enforcers seeking easy money.
That’s why many riders and biyaheros take some satisfaction whenever corrupt personnel are caught and arrested by honest officers.
In coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), the LTO recently conducted an entrapment operation against nine personnel of the agency’s Regional Law Enforcement Section (RLES) in Caraga. The operation stemmed from multiple complaints alleging that the personnel were extorting money from truck drivers passing through Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
According to the LTO, an initial investigation found that the nine personnel had been collecting money from truckers while on duty. Authorities recovered marked money used in the operation, alleged collection money, mobile phones, two-way radios, and other items that may serve as evidence in the filing of charges.
“Our policy at the LTO is clear: there is no room for corruption within our ranks. Anyone proven to have violated the law and the trust bestowed upon them by the public will be held accountable both administratively and criminally. We will not tolerate any form of abuse of authority, and we will continue to cleanse our ranks in order to preserve the integrity of the agency,” said Lacanilao.
Following the operation, Lacanilao ordered the immediate filing of administrative charges against the personnel involved, separate from the criminal cases they are set to face. He also assured the agency’s full cooperation with law enforcement authorities to help ensure the swift and impartial resolution of the cases.
