What was supposed to be a rescue operation turned into arrest of alleged drug couriers, as police personnel found marijuana leaves belonging to two individuals who figured in a vehicular accident along Kennon Road at Camp 4, Tuba, Benguet.
The Police Regional Office-Cordillera reported last week that suspects Jimmsie Salazar, 40, a resident of Bacoor, Cavite and Justine Jerome Baisa, 28, of San Mateo, Rizal were negotiating down Kenon Road on July 3 when their vehicle’s brake malfunctioned.
This caused the Ford Ranger pick-up to turn turtle on the side of the road, which prompted concerned citizens to report the incident to the police.
“Our police personnel responded to the report of a vehicular traffic accident. But a concerned citizen said there was a box thrown on the side of the road by those involved in the accident,” PRO-Cor Information Officer Cpt. Marnie Abellanida said.
He said this prompted personnel of the Baguio City Police Office stationed at Kennon Road and Tuba Municipal Police Station to check on the ravine to verify the tip.
Upon checking, 12 tubes of dried marijuana leaves weighing 12,000 grams worth P 1.4 million were found which prompted the immediate arrest of the suspects.
Investigation revealed the suspects received the package at the Lion’s Head at Kennon Road, but did not divulge the source of the box.
The suspects were reportedly promised P5,000 each once they successfully transported the box in Las Piñas City.
The arrested suspects and the confiscated pieces of evidence were brought to the custody of Tuba MPS for documentation and proper disposition.
The duo, who incurred minor injuries from the accident, will face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Earlier, PRO-Cor reported close to 270 individuals were arrested for illegal drugs trade from January to July 6. – Ofelia C. Empian
