Buy-bust operation nets drug suspect

CEBU, Philippines - A suspected drug pusher was arrested yesterday morning in sitio Kimba, barangay Cansojong, Talisay City during a buy bust operation conducted by the police and members of the Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Task Group (PAIDSOT-G).

Romeo Magdasal, 42, a resident of the place, is now detained at the Talisay City police station detention cell.

Found in Magdasal's house were shabu placed in packets, a cigarette lighter, and a .22 caliber bullet inserted in a roll of aluminum foil.

The search warrant was issued by Regional Trial Court branch 10 Soliver Peras.

Based on the records of the city police, Magdasal was arrested some time in 2007 for alleged violation of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

He however posted bail for his temporary liberty.

Magdasal admitted operating in barangay Lorega-San Miguel, Cebu City, but later on moved with his wife, Bernadith, 40, to Talisay.

His case is still pending at RTC branch 10.

The raiding team headed by Senior Inspector Marlon Gumabao, deputy police chief, went to Magdasal's place to search it.

PO2 Roy Lofranco, who was a member of the raiding team, said Magdasal was shadowed for two months before a "test buy" was made to find out how many grams he dispensed everyday.

In this latest brush with the law, however, Magdasal denied owning the shabu the police had seized, claiming they were "planted."   (FREEMAN NEWS)