The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Wednesday said it has seized some PHP2.1 million worth of medical supplies and essential goods during operations against hoarders and profiteers in Metro Manila.
In a statement, NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas said from March 17 – April 6, 29 persons were arrested in police operations while eight cases have been filed.
These products include industrial masks, disposable surgical masks, alcohol and body thermometers.
Sinas assured the public of continuous monitoring and crackdown against people profiteering and hoarding medical equipment amid the health emergency caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
“We are all affected by the pandemic crisis, none of us is exempted. Therefore, we are saddened by the fact that there are opportunists who are still using our current plight to earn and gain profit illegally from our fellowmen. Nevertheless, our public can be assured that NCRPO is ready to serve and protect 24/7,” he said.
He added that reports from concerned citizens greatly helped in the immediate apprehension of hoarders and profiteers.
He, meanwhile, clarified that the seized products could not be distributed as these will be used as pieces of evidence against the suspects. (PNA)
