Japanese nabbed in drug sting

MANILA, Philippines - A Japanese man was arrested for selling two grams of suspected shabu in a sting in Mandaluyong City on Monday.

Masaki Hashimoto, 43, a resident of Barangay Highway Hills, did not resist when collared by members of the Eastern Police District (EPD) anti-illegal drug unit.

Drug charges were filed against Hashimoto before the Mandaluyong City prosecutor’s office. No bail was recommended.

Senior Superintendent Elmer Jamias, EPD director, said they are coordinating with the Japanese embassy to determine whether Hashimoto is a member of the Yakuza, a criminal syndicate based in Japan.