PNP orders probe into cop allegedly moonlighting for Chinese fugitive; reservist also suspected
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered an investigation into a police master sergeant and a reservist suspected of providing unauthorized security to a Chinese fugitive involved in telecom fraud, who was recently apprehended in Makati City.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched an investigation into an active police officer and an Air Force reservist accused of moonlighting as bodyguards for Chinese fugitive Zhang Jinglong, a 29-year-old telecom fraud suspect. Zhang was apprehended on March 25, 2026, along Mercedes Street, Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City, by the Bureau of Immigration's Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU) in coordination with PNP, Makati City Police, and intelligence agencies. He entered the Philippines in November 2019 as a temporary visitor but overstayed without a valid visa, and is wanted by Guangdong, China authorities for telecom fraud. During the arrest, he was with three other Chinese nationals who lacked valid passports, and authorities found airsoft guns and four luxury vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce, raising suspicions of ongoing POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator) activities.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. called the alleged moonlighting a "clear betrayal of public trust" and emphasized zero tolerance for criminal involvement. The investigation, conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration, will pursue both administrative and criminal charges if links to the fraud syndicate are confirmed. The Bureau of Immigration spokesperson reiterated strict bans on moonlighting for PNP and AFP personnel, especially for fugitives, with AFP leadership also investigating the reservist for disciplinary action.
The Chinese fugitive, Zhang Jinglong, is on a BI blacklist for prior violations and falsely claimed Vanuatu citizenship during his arrest. Authorities are coordinating with Customs to verify the four luxury vehicles found during the operation. This case echoes prior PNP actions, including the sacking of 11 SAF officers in 2024 for similar moonlighting activities for a Chinese national. The investigation continues as authorities examine potential connections to broader criminal networks operating in the Philippines.
Join the discussion
What do you think? Drop your thoughts below.