Four policemen were dismissed from their posts while undergoing investigation over their alleged “negligence” in handling a robbery case involving celebrity chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou.

Rizal Provincial Police Director PCol. Eleazar Ruga Barber Jr. confirmed that two officers from Antipolo City and another two from Baras were temporarily relieved of their duties after an argument about which officers have jurisdiction over the case, reported RH 52 Edniel Parrosa on Tuesday.

Sarthou filed a complaint regarding a robbery at his house on September 25. The incident resulted in loss of and damage to his property amounting to ₱4 million.

As the chef’s house is located along the border of Antipolo and Baras, officers passed his case to and fro, leading him to seek help from barangay officials instead.

In a separate statement issued by Philippine National Police (PNP) Spokesperson PCol. Allan Rae Co, the PNP leadership has ordered an investigation into the two chiefs of police in Antipolo and Baras, as well as Rizal’s provincial director, Ruga.

The PNP reminded officers that they are not merely local police, but members of a nationwide law enforcement agency.

“It’s not a proper reason or justification na ‘Baka sa ibang bayan ‘yan.’ Ito po, paalala sa ating mga kasamahan mismo, sa ating mga kapulisan: you are just called a local police dahil you are assigned in that specific or particular area, but we are the Philippine National Police. We are mandated to render assistance kahit sino po at kahit saan po,” he said during a press briefing.

Due to the complaint gaining traction online, the PNP took action and was able to arrest the robbery suspect, 26, in Antipolo City.

Police recovered kitchen tools, including imported equipment believed to have been stolen from Sarthou’s home.