Ex-DENR employee nabbed for shabu

SAN JUAN, Ilocos Sur — A 72-year-old retired Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) employee was arrested after police — executing a search warrant — allegedly confiscated illegal drugs and loose firearms from his residence.

The suspect, who police identified as a drug surrenderee and a street-level drug individual, was taken into custody in Barangay Barbar.

Maj. Benjamin Raquedan, San Juan chief of police, reported that the operation was carried out for the violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165).

Police allegedly seized 11 heat-sealed plastic sachets containing suspected shabu weighing approximately 0.70 grams and estimated to be worth P2,580. Authorities also confiscated two firearms — a 12-gauge homemade shotgun and a .45 caliber Armscor pistol — along with various ammunition.

“The San Juan Municipal Police Station once again has proven its commitment to providing peace and security to the community,” Raquedan said in a statement.

The search and inventory of seized items were conducted on-site, witnessed by the suspect, elected barangay officials and a representative from the Department of Justice.

The suspect was informed of his constitutional rights and later taken to the Ilocos Sur District Hospital for a medico-legal examination.