Tanod caught with P10-million shabu

MANILA, Philippines — A barangay tanod or watchman in Taguig City was arrested yesterday for alleged possession of two kilos of shabu with an estimated street value of P10 million during a drug bust in Barangay Central Bicutan.

Suwaib Mamalangkay, 35,  of Barangay Maharlika Village, was collared after he allegedly sold 50 grams of shabu worth P30,000 to a police officer who posed as a buyer, Southern Police District director Chief Superintendent Tomas Apolinario said. 

Mamalangkay is said to be the leader of a criminal group allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade, carjacking, robbery and gun-for-hire, according to Apolinario.

Apolinario said members of the Taguig police drug enforcement unit conducted the sting after receiving information that Mamalangkay was allegedly pushing drugs in the area.

Aside from drugs, police said the suspect also yielded a .45-caliber handgun, a grenade and drug paraphernalia.

 Authorities said Mamalangkay was previously jailed for allegedly killing his wife in 2015. He was freed from detention after posting bail.

Mamalangkay’s group was also tagged in the robbery at a canteen in Parañaque City in November last year. 

Police said charges of violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act as well as illegal possession of firearms, ammunition and explosives would be filed against him before the Taguig City prosecutor’s office.