RAPS FILED VS 3 PDEA MEN FOR KIDNAP OF WOMAN TRADER

Charges with kidnap-for-ransom and serious illegal detention were filed
against three operatives of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for
allegedly abducting a businesswoman last May.

Charged before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) were chief Insp.
Joselito Clarito, PO1 Antonio de los Reyes and PO3 Antonio Romero, all
reportedly assigned to the PDEA Metro Manila Regional Office-Special
Enforcement Group.

Complainant Ronalyn Manatad said on the morning of May 16, she and her
friend, Vicky Lustero, were walking along Quezon Avenue on their way to the
Philippine Children's Medical when the respondents abducted her.

She added at gunpoint, she was allegedly pushed into a waiting L-300 van
which the respondents and a certain PO1 Juelito Borja boarded.

She said while they were cruising Elliptical Road, the respondents
allegedly called up her half-brother, Edwin Silvio, and demanded P200,000
ransom for her release.

After hours of travelling, the respondents allegedly brought her to PDEA
office where she was surprised to learn she was being charged with
violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of
2002.

State prosecutors recommended the filing of the charges after finding
probable cause against the respondents.