Barangay chief nabbed for drugs, firearms

CEBU, Philippines - A barangay captain of Getafe, Bohol was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly keeping drugs, guns and explosives in his house.

The Regional Intelligence Division (RID) 7 nabbed Pandanon Barangay Captain Norberto Cabañero, 55, by virtue of two search warrants issued by Cebu City Judge Soliver Peras of the Regional Trial Court Branch 10.

RID operatives led by Supt. Pablo Labra II proceeded to Cabañero’s house and implemented the warrants at past 4 a. m.

The raid was witnessed by Cabañero’s tanods, Jessie Nanoy and Samuel Hussin and wife Norita.

The suspect did not resist arrest.

Seized  were a caliber .38 revolver, cal. 45 pistol, a magazine, a holster, 14 live ammunition for cal. 38 and cal. 45, two blasting caps, and two improvised dynamites locally known as binayo.

Police also seized a big plastic pack containing white substance believed to be ammonium nitrate.

Police also seized two medium size and two small size of suspected shabu from the suspect’s house.

The barangay captain was brought to RID 7 office where he is temporarily detained pending filing of charges.

The suspect said he believes politics is behind his arrest but he refused to answer further questions.

Charges for violation of the Republic Act 8294 or illegal possession of firearms, RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and RA 9516 or the Explosives Law will be filed against the suspects before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office in Talibon, Bohol. — (FREEMAN)