Cop arrested for gun, drug paraphernalia

A policeman was arrested by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Branch for carrying drug paraphernalia and an unlicensed firearm in sitio Sampaguita, barangay Tejero, Sunday evening.

CIIB chief, Supt. Paul Labra II identified the policeman as PO1 Richard Rosacena, assigned to the Mandaue City Police Office. A certain Agnes Leah Montebon, 24, of barangay Tejero, was also arrested.

Labra said his office received information from the residents of the barangay that an armed man, believed to be a policeman, was seen in sitio Sampaguita, a known meeting place for drug users and pushers.

A team led by SPO1 Filomeno Mendaros was dispatched to the area and they arrested Montebon. Allegedly recovered from him were 40 strips of aluminum foil, a cutter, a metal clip and an unlicensed .45 cal. pistol with five live bullets. Nearby, Montebon was also allegedly found with drug paraphernalia.

Rosacena later denied he had drug paraphernalia in his possession during his arrest and refused to issue further statements while waiting for the advise of his lawyer.

Police said they are preparing the necessary charges against Rosacena. According to reports Rosacena was also arrested last month by policemen in barangay San Roque for entering a house reportedly used as meeting place for drug users and pushers. - Jose P. Sollano