MANILA – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has 10 days to report its findings on the alleged illegal sale of Covid-19 vaccines and vaccination slots.
Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra gave Department Order No. 120 to the NBI on Monday to formally start the investigation.
“OIC (Officer in charge) Eric B. Distor is hereby directed to submit reports on the progress of the subject investigation directly to the Office of the Secretary within 10 days (from receipt of the order) and periodically thereafter,” the directive read.
Guevarra verbally asked Distor over the weekend to order the NBI cybercrime division and other relevant units to investigate, upon the request of Metro Manila Development Authority chair Benhur Abalos, the alleged sale of Covid-19 vaccines.
All vaccines only have emergency use authorization and therefore, cannot be sold commercially.
In separate statements, the local governments of San Juan, Parañaque, and Mandaluyong said investigations are being conducted in coordination with law enforcers regarding the alleged illegal sale.
The Manila and Taguig governments, meanwhile, condemned the alleged sale and vowed they will go after the perpetrators. Manila also issued an ordinance on Monday officially banning the sale of Covid-19 jabs. Those proven guilty will face fines and imprisonment while corporations will be banned from conducting business in the capital city. (PNA)