LTO Conducts Entrapment Operation Against 9 CARAGA Enforcers Over Alleged Extortion Scheme
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has intensified its anti-corruption campaign after LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao ordered an entrapment operation against nine members of the LTO CARAGA Regional Law Enforcement Section (RLES) who were allegedly involved in extorting money from truck drivers in Agusan del Norte.
The operation forms part of the agency's continuing efforts to eliminate corruption, strengthen accountability, and restore public trust in government services.
Complaint Triggers Immediate Investigation
The operation was launched following reports alleging that several LTO enforcement personnel were soliciting money from truck drivers while performing their official duties in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Upon receiving the complaint, Assistant Secretary Lacanilao immediately directed the conduct of an investigation and the implementation of an entrapment operation to verify the allegations.
Joint Anti-Corruption Operation
The operation, dubbed the "Anti-Kotong Operation," was conducted on June 18, 2026, in Barangay Alubijid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Several law enforcement agencies participated in the coordinated effort, including:
- LTO Central Office
- Philippine National Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) – Regional Intelligence Division
- Regional Intelligence Unit 13 (RIU 13)
- Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 (RMFB 13)
- Buenavista Municipal Police Station (MPS)
The multi-agency operation aimed to gather evidence and ensure a transparent and impartial investigation.
9 Personnel Allegedly Caught Accepting Money
According to initial reports, nine LTO personnel were allegedly caught in the act of accepting money from truck drivers during the operation.
Evidence Recovered During the Operation
Authorities reportedly recovered several pieces of evidence, including:
- Marked money used during the entrapment
- Various amounts of cash
- Handheld radios
- Cellular phones
- Traffic apprehension forms
- Other documents and materials relevant to the investigation
The evidence will be used in the filing of both criminal and administrative cases against the individuals involved.
Criminal and Administrative Charges Being Prepared
Following their arrest, the personnel were taken to the Buenavista Municipal Police Station for documentation and processing.
Authorities are preparing to file cases for:
Possible Criminal Violations
- Direct Bribery
- Violations of Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act)
The LTO also confirmed that separate administrative proceedings will be initiated against the personnel involved.
LTO Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Corruption
Assistant Secretary Lacanilao emphasized that corruption, extortion, and abuse of authority have no place within the agency.
"Our policy at the LTO is clear—there is no room for corruption among our personnel. Anyone proven to have violated the law and betrayed the public trust will be held administratively and criminally accountable."
He further stressed that the agency will continue to pursue reforms and remove personnel who engage in illegal activities.
Strengthening Integrity in Public Service
Following the operation, Lacanilao ordered the immediate implementation of appropriate administrative sanctions while criminal proceedings move forward.
He also assured the public that the LTO will fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure a fair, transparent, and speedy resolution of the case.
Continuing Internal Cleansing Program
The successful operation is part of the LTO's broader anti-corruption initiative aimed at improving public service and strengthening institutional integrity.
The agency reiterated that no employee, regardless of rank or position, is exempt from accountability. Through stricter monitoring, enforcement actions, and cooperation with law enforcement agencies, the LTO aims to uphold professionalism and maintain public confidence in its services.
As investigations continue, the LTO encourages motorists and transport stakeholders to report incidents of extortion, bribery, fixer activities, and other irregularities through official channels. Public cooperation remains a key component in the agency's efforts to build a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free transportation system.
