CEBU, Philippines – Police arrested 24 persons and seized more than P1 million worth of suspected shabu, firearms, and hand grenades when they implemented a search warrant yesterday morning in a drug den in Barangay Inuboran, City of Naga.
However, the police's actual target, a certain Joel Getica, in his late 30s, was able to elude arrest. He is suspected to be a drug pusher in the area.
Senior Police Officer 1 Renante Solante of the Provincial Intelligence Branch told The FREEMAN that Getica operates a cockfighting arena as a means to cover his drug den operation.
When the PIB received reports of his alleged illegal activities three weeks ago, they then conducted surveillance and test-buys to confirm the information.
Having verified the report, Solante said the PIB got the search warrant from Regional Trial Court Judge Jerry Dicdican of Branch 25 in Danao City.
Yesterday morning, while the PIB operatives were on their way to the drug den, one of Getica's henchmen reportedly spotted the police officers. The spotter supposedly informed Getica to give him ample time to escape from the law enforcers.
Despite Getica's absence, the police implemented the search warrant.
Drug den visitors scampered in all directions when the officers identified themselves to the group of suspects. Some 24 of them were eventually picked up.
Police recovered a KG9 submachine pistol, a caliber .45 pistol, two fragmentation grenades, and 100 grams of suspected shabu valued at P1.1 million from Getica's alleged cohorts.
Solante said they received tips that the firearms were kept to kill junkies who would not pay their dues. They believe that Getica uses the arms to neutralize his competitors.
Apart from the drugs and firearms, PIB also confiscated 20 motorcycles allegedly used in Getica's drug-related activities.
Meanwhile, all 24 arrested people were brought to the provincial headquarters and will be charged as soon as the police can establish their respective violations and identities.
The PIB has already confiscated close to P10 million worth of suspected shabu so far this month. (FREEMAN)