Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos wants to file criminal charges against the cops who are working part-time as security escorts for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).

Abalos emphasized that the said activity is unauthorized, and those who disobey will be investigated by the Philippine National Police Internal Affairs Service (PNP-IAS).

He added that there is no security risk on the part of the offshore gaming operators; therefore, there is no basis for them to be given police escorts.

The interior secretary said that the police force should be available in important matters, such as the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on October 30, for which the police officers are necessary.