The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) said it has arrested a radio commentator and his cohort during an entrapment operation in Cebu City for alleged extortion activities.

In a statement on Friday, CIDG chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III said the suspects were identified as “Roger”—a radio commentator at the DYRB online radio, and “Joselito”—his assistant at the station. 

Members of the CIDG 7 (Central Visayas) and the Talisay City Police arrested the two suspects in a police operation at a coffee shop in Barangay Lawaan 2 around 2:30 p.m. on 28 November. 

According to Torre, the two are accused of being involved in a robbery-extortion scheme using grave coercion.

In an ambush interview at Camp Crame on Friday, CIDG spokesperson Lt.Col. Imelda Reyes, said the operation stemmed from a complaint filed by Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony Gullas Jr., alleging that a certain “Roger” demanded from him P4 million in exchange for withdrawing his candidacy in next year's elections.

“Mayor Gullas’ term will end this year. And this radio announcer who allegedly extorted him also filed a candidacy for mayoral post in the next election,” Reyes said in Filipino. 

According to Reyes, Gullas went to the CIDG Cebu City on 26 November to file a complaint against a certain “Roger” who asked him for P2 million, promising he will back out in the next election. 

“Roger” demanded P4 million anew for keeping the mayor's secrets. 

Reyes said the CIDG launched an entrapment after validating the complaint. 

The operatives confiscated 10 marked P1,000 bills, boodle money consisting of 199 P1,000 and eight P500 bills, and some identification cards.

The arrested suspects were informed of their constitutional rights before they were taken to the Talisay police station for further investigation.

Further, Torre said the operation exemplifies the PNP’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served. 

“The CIDG remains vigilant in its mission to combat criminal activities that threaten the integrity of governance and public safety,” he added.