MMDA traffic aide trying to extort money, arrested
MMDA – A traffic aide of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has been arrested in Pasig City, Friday night, for alleged bribery.
Jomar Palata, 40, a traffic aide, was arrested by the personnel of the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group – Special Operations Division in an entrapment operation.
The suspect was assigned to the Office of the Assistant General Manager for Operations of MMDA.
As per the police report, a female victim sought the help of the police after the suspect tried to extort money from her.
The suspect allegedly introduced himself to the victim as a law enforcement personnel of the Land Transportation Office.
According to her, it was on April 28 when the suspect told her that her commuter vans will be impounded if she won’t give P100,000.
Together with the authorities, the suspect failed to extort money from the victim and was immediately arrested.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said that he will not tolerate any illegal activity of his personnel.
He also encouraged the victims of extortion and coercion and those who give payola to report such illegal activity.
“The MMDA is serious in cleaning its ranks of any wrongdoings as we are likewise very firm in keeping the agency corruption-free,” Artes said.
“Anyone who was victimized by erring personnel is encouraged to lodge a complaint in our office for investigation. Proven guilty, the MMDA will not be gentle in meting out punishments for these individuals,” he added.
He noted that the legitimate apprehension by the MMDA must be settled at the MMDA Redemption Center in Makati City or thru authorized online payment channels such as Landbank at Bayad.
The suspect has been detained and facing charges such as robbery extortion, grave coercion, and usurpation of authority.
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