No bail for drug peddling brothers

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Prosecutor’s Office has recommended no bail against two brothers charged for illegal drug sale and possession and for maintaining a drug den in Barangay South Poblacion, San Fernando.

State prosecutor Mary Anne Demano found probable cause and indicted Gringo Maalyao and his brother Crisologo for trial.

“…that on the basis of the sworn statements and evidence submitted by them, there exists a reasonable ground to believe that the crime has been committed and that the accused are probably guilty thereof,” read the document.

 Aside from the violations under Republic Act 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, the Maalyao brothers were also charged for illegal possession of firearms with also no bail recommended.

Gringo was charged for a separate complaint for violation of the gun ban imposed by the Commission on Election with P175,000 bail bond.

BACKGROUND

On January 26, agents of the National Bureau of Investigation-7 conducted a buy-bust operation in Barangay South Poblacion, San Fernando leading to the arrest of the brothers.

Also arrested were Jupiter Lawas, who was also charged for illegal drug sale and possession, and Joseph Billok, who was charged for illegal possession of firearm.   The agents were tasked prior to the operation to verify reports of an alleged rampant and open selling, distribution and use of shabu at Sitio Tapon in Barangay South Poblacion perpetrated by the Maalyao brothers.

In their surveillance, the NBI-7 confirmed the brothers’ drug activities and thus arranged the buy-bust operation.

At least 300 grams of shabu worth P3.5 million and five guns were recovered from the suspects. (FREEMAN)