MANILA – Some 142 police officers assigned at the Eastern Police District (EPD) tested negative following last week's surprise drug test as part of efforts to weed its ranks of drug users.
In a statement Monday, EPD director, Chief Supt. Bernabe Balba said a total of 142 operatives from the District and Station Drug Enforcement Unit and the Intelligence Unit were gathered at the EPD Headquarters and underwent surprise random drug test last November 13.
The said personnel were gathered in the guise of a conference after which they were subjected to a surprise drug test wherein no one can leave the headquarters unless he’s done with the drug test.
Last Nov. 14, the EPD Crime Laboratory Office released the results wherein all 142 personnel tested negative.
Balba revealed that the random drug test is being regularly done through unexpected events or dates to check the health status of EPD policemen and make sure that the operatives are drug-free.
The activity aims to determine if there are personnel involved in illegal activities while enforcing the law against illegal drugs. It is line with the aggressive campaign of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) against “ninja” cops.
Last week, personnel from the Manila Police District (MPD) and the Southern Police District were also subjected to surprise drug tests. (PNA)
