The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday defended the legality of its recent seizure of luxury vehicles linked to former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co, saying the operation was carried out under valid legal authority.
PNP Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the operation followed directives from proper authorities, including Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“The operation was in compliance with an order from proper authorities. We want to assure the public that all actions of the Philippine National Police are legal and in accordance with the law,” Nartatez said, responding to concerns raised by Co’s legal counsel.
On January 8, joint teams from the PNP, Bureau of Customs, and Land Transportation Office raided a Taguig condominium and seized high-end vehicles, including Rolls-Royce, Toyota Sequoia, Cadillac Escalade, and Lexus models. All were linked to Co, who is under investigation for alleged anomalies in flood control funds.
“From the start, we already committed to provide assistance in the investigation and enforcement of all legal orders in relation to the flood control issue. The involvement of your PNP in the operation was part of that commitment,” Nartatez added.
PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulph Tuaño said the police are prepared to respond to any legal actions Co’s camp may file regarding the seizure.
The vehicles are currently held at the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) office in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig.