By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO) Director, Police Senior Superintendent William Señoron, lambasted former Berya drug group member Ricky Serenio over recent allegations he was receiving P1.2 million in protection money from drug lords in Negros Occidental and was linked to slain Iloilo druglord Melvin Odicta, Sr.
Señoron said he was expecting Serenio would be used as “a pawn” and “fall guy” in helping destroy his name and other police officers in the province that are involved.
He said Serenio’s claims are “all fabrications, outlandish, and nothing more than tall tales.”
Following the latest claims, the provincial police director is now seeking counsel in planning legal action against the former Berya drug group member.
He added he is willing to resign from his post and waive all of his benefits if Serenio can show proof he is receiving money from the infamous drug group.
Over the weekend, Serenio’s camp released their supplemental affidavit alleging additional links between Señoron and several other high ranking law enforcement officials with the Berya drug group.
Besides the allegations to members of police, he also detailed how drugs are being distributed in different towns and cities in Negros Occidental.
Serenio was arrested in Talisay City in January of this year, after the court issued an arrest warrant for the charge of grave coercion.
However, he was released from prison last Thursday, after posting bail for his criminal charges. Police Regional Office-18 (PRO-18) spokesperson, Police Senior Inspector Armilyn Vargas, said, although Serenio is temporarily free, he is currently at an undisclosed location in Pulupandan./WDJ