P28M worth of marijuana bricks seized at Isabela checkpoint
Police officers conduct an inventory of the seized P28 million worth of marijuana bricks in Isabela on Tuesday, Jan. 14. (Photo courtesy of PNP R2)
ROXAS, Isabela —Police operatives arrested two men and confiscated P28 million worth of dried marijuana bricks during a checkpoint along the national road in this town on Tuesday (Jan. 14), authorities reported on Wednesday.
Brigadier General Antonio Marallag Jr., Cagayan Valley regional police director, identified the suspects as “Rico” and “Jomel,” both 30 years old and residents of Barangka Ilaya, Mandaluyong City.
The duo was found in possession of 222 marijuana bricks valued at P26.64 million and 19 packs of rolled dried marijuana worth P2.28 million.
“The checkpoints have been proved instrumental, like this one, in averting crimes. We shall ensure that the checkpoints across the region will be manned 24/7, especially during this election period,” Marallag said.
The operation began when police flagged down the suspects’ SUV at the checkpoint. Instead of complying, the driver sped away and sideswiped a police vehicle in an attempt to evade capture. A hot pursuit ensued, culminating in the suspects’ arrest in Centro, Mallig town.
Article continues after this advertisementBoth suspects are now under police custody, and authorities are preparing charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, specifically for illegal possession and transportation of prohibited substances.
