Canadian immigration halt Azurin over abuses under Duterte
By Nidz Godino
"He was not deported…he opted to return to the country while Canadian authorities were still 'verifying' results of his interview… no deportation," former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. was reportedly questioned by immigration authorities upon his arrival at Langley Airport in Canada about drug war of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Sources told media Canadian immigration authorities were reportedly interested to know details about Duterte drug war, and even asked Azurin about incumbent senators allied with previous administration.
Contrary to reports, same sources said Azurin was not deported, but opted to take flight back to Philippines to avoid further "harassment" by immigration authorities.
Azurin, although confused by questioning, obliged and cooperated with immigration officers, source said.
Azurin denied he was deported by Canadian government, saying he would address the issue soon.
"In due time, I will issue my statement and face media to tell what happen," Azurin said in statement released to journalists.
He suspects police general was one spreading lies about his supposed deportation. He expressed belief that same police general tipped Canadian immigration by concocting half truths and lies in hope he would be deported.
Canadian immigration office was apparently informed in advance about Azurin's arrival as officers were waiting for him upon disembarking from plane, sources said.
Same sources refused to elaborate on circumstances surrounding matter pending reactions from concerned agencies here and in Canada.
"Given chance, he will tell his story at proper time," Azurin's colleague, who requested anonymity, told media in separate interview.
Colleague said Azurin is currently abroad to attend to personal engagements.
Reports circulating said Azurin was accosted and deported from Canada.
Philippine authorities have yet to comment on issue.
Bureau of Immigration (BI) is not in position to confirm or deny reports about Azurin's alleged deportation from Canada.
During press conference, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval could not confirm or deny anything because it was an action done by Canadian immigration.
Asked for any available information about Azurin's travel, Sandoval said BI has records of his departure and arrival, but these could not be shared due to data privacy.
"We have on record, but we have not received any information about his alleged deportation," Sandoval said.
She said not mandatory for other countries to inform Philippine immigration about their deportation proceedings.
Sandoval said although some countries and airlines do provide data, there have been no information or updates regarding Azurin's supposed deportation.
Azurin, who retired in April this year after serving as top cop for eight months, was first PNP chief appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
He was succeeded by Gen. Benjamin Acorda.
During his term, Azurin led investigation on narco-generals, prompted PNP and National Police Commission (Napolcom) to conduct lifestyle checks and background investigation on close to 1,000 police officers, from colonels to generals.
Lifestyle check and background investigation on alleged narco-generals were recommended by Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, who chairs Napolcom.
Abalos told media his office was still verifying the matter "with legitimate sources."
"I have no knowledge about this Azurin incident," Abalos said in text message.
In July, FMJ accepted resignation of 18 police officials tagged by PNP Advisory Group to have allegedly been involved in illegal drugs.
These officials were brigadier generals Remus Medina, Randy Peralta and Pablo Labra II as well as colonels Rogarth Campo, Rommel Ochave, Rommel Velasco, Robin King Sarmiento, Fernando Ortega, Rex Derilo, Julian Olonan, Rolando Portera, Lawrence Cajipe, Dario Menor, Joel Tampis, Michael David, Igmedio Bernaldez, Rodolfo Albotra Jr. and Marvin Sanchez.
Prior to this, Azurin was implicated in the issue, but was cleared by Senate panel investigating alleged cover-up on major drug haul involving 990 kilos of shabu with an estimated value of P6.7 billion in Manila in October last year.
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