Level 2 drug pusher arrested

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 7 arrested an alleged level 2 drug pusher during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Tuburan, Danao City last Thursday afternoon.

A level 2 drug pusher can dispose at least P100,000 worth of illegal drugs in a week.

Police said the suspect, Jose Lloyd Fortuno, 65, was arrested after he handed one small packet of shabu to a poseur buyer in exchange of P500.

Two other packets of shabu were also reportedly recovered from Fortuno.

The suspect, a resident of the area, did not resist arrest.

The pieces of evidence recovered will be subjected to chemical analysis at the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory-7 at Camp Sotero Cabahug in Cebu City.

A PDEA agent who requested anonymity said Fortuno allegedly manufactures guns illegally, but they did not recover any firearm from him during the bust.

The agent said Fortuno is known in Barangay Tuburan Sur for his involvement in illegal drugs. Recently, complainants went to the PDEA office to report alleged rampant illegal drugs operation.

Intelligence report of PDEA-7 revealed that Fortuno has connections with Mindanao-based suppliers. Investigation is ongoing to determine the veracity of the report.

Charges for Sections 5 and 11 of the Republic Act 9165 or Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 will be filed against Fortuno this week. He is currently detained at the PDEA-7 stockade.      - THE FREEMAN