TANDAG CITY (MindaNews / 14 January) – A former Philippine National Police (PNP) officer, identified as alias Ben, 33, was arrested during a drug buy-bust operation in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, allegedly found with shabu worth P200,000. The suspect, classified as a high-value target, was apprehended by the Surigao del Sur Police Drug Enforcement Unit (SDS PDEU) in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Marihatag Municipal Police Station. Operatives recovered five heat-sealed plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, weighing approximately 30 grams, along with buy-bust money, counterfeit bills, and personal items. Colonel Jeffrey Lawrence D. Mauricio, Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Director, confirmed the suspect was a former policeman who went AWOL and was listed as a drug pusher. Mauricio condemned the betrayal of public trust, emphasizing that no one is above the law. Major Magdalino G. Pimentel Jr., SDS PDEU chief, assured the operation complied with PNP and PDEA procedures, preserving evidence integrity. The suspect tested positive for illegal drugs, and the seized substance was confirmed as shabu by the Provincial Forensic Unit. Charges under Republic Act 9165 are being prepared, with the suspect set for inquest on January 14. (Queenie Casio/MindaNews)
