Pigcawayan couple arrested during PDEA anti-drug ops
Local News • 00:46 AM Tue Nov 14, 2017
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By:
Edwin O. Fernandez
PIGCAWAYAN, North Cotabato – Anti-narcotics
operatives today arrested a couple-trader during anti-drug operation and seized
more than P250,000 worth of suspected shabu, guns and ammunition.
Director Gil Cesario Castro of Philippine Drug Enforcement
Agency (PDEA-12) said PDEA agents, backed by police and other law enforcement
units, served the search warrants against businessman Richard Balbini and his
wife Jeanette, both members of Bawan Drug Group based in Pigcawayan.
The couple, who operates a restaurant in Barangay
Poblacion and considered high value targets, did not resist arrest when the
search warrant was presented to them at about 5:30 a.m., Castro said.
Seized from the Balbinis home were about 50g of
methamphetamine hydrochloride, one 9mm pistol with two magazines and
ammunition, a .22 caliber rifle with magazine, a net book, a canon camera,
several pass books, bank notes and a Toyota Fortuner.
Castro said the couple is facing charges for
violation of RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act) and RA 10591 (Illegal
Possession of Firearms and Explosives).
Two days earlier, PDEA agents arrested the town
treasurer of Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat and his wife during anti-drug operation in Gen. Santos City.Castro said Joy Nadar, 46, municipal treasurer of
Palimbang, and her husband, Jojo, who belonged to Sogis Drug Group, did not
resist arrest PDEA agents and members of Task Force GenSan, serve the search
warrant.
Seized from the official were hand grenade, .40
caliber pistol, checks and disbursement documents. (Edwin O. Fernandez)