Pubdate: Sun, 27 Jul 2003
Source: Sunstar General Santos (Philippines)
Copyright: 2003, Sunstar
Contact:  http://www.sunstar.com.ph/affiliate.php3?locid=7
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2450

BRGY. COUNCILMAN SAYS PDEA ASSET IS DRUG PUSHER

THE peace and order chair of Barangay Dadiangas South claimed an asset of 
the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 12 is a known drug pusher in 
their barangay.

Barangay Kagawad Quintin Catolico said he personally saw a certain alias 
"Boy Lagum", reportedly a PDEA asset, pushing illegal drugs in Purok Islam.

Catolico said they almost intercepted Boy Lagum near Lion's Beach last 
Tuesday. The suspect allegedly handed the illegal substance to another asset.

"Hinabol nga namin iyong tatlo pa pero hindi na talaga naabutan. Gabi-gabi 
talagang ginagawa ito sa lugar (We ran after the three but we failed to 
catch up with them. They are doing this in our area every night)," he added.

Catolico also complained that they are having difficulty arresting 
suspected drug pushers since the PDEA claimed it is the only agency 
responsible for arresting drug pushers and users.

Mayor Pedro Acharon Jr. immediately challenged Catolico to file cases 
against those whom the latter believed were involved in illegal drug 
activities instead of giving statements to the media.

"Dapat mag-file siya og kaso batok sa tawo dili kay puro lang estorya (He 
should file a case against the person instead of just talking)," the mayor 
said.

However, Acharon also admitted he has no control over the activities of 
PDEA assets.

MFV
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MAP posted-by: Jackl