Sacked cop, 72 others nabbed for drugs

MANILA, Philippines — A dismissed policeman and at least 72 others were arrested in separate anti-drug operations in Metro Manila over the past two days.

Former Police Officer 2 Alfredo Espinosa, 57, was allegedly caught taking part in a drug session along Sto. Niño street in Barangay Payatas at around 11:30 p.m. Thursday.

Anti-narcotics operatives arrested Noel Austria, 48, and Miguel Yudico, 27, during a drug sting that led to the apprehension of Espinosa, Yander Jobe Cagata, 39, Joel Recto, 34, and Raymond Yumul, who were allegedly engaged in an illegal gambling game and using illegal drugs.

A total of 12 sachets of shabu, drug paraphernalia, bet money and marked money were seized from the suspects.

Espinosa entered the police service in 1981 and was dismissed for serious neglect of duty after being absent without leave on 2006. 

Seven others were also arrested in Quezon City, 33 in Manila, 21 in northern Metro Manila and seven in Pasig.