Solvent abuser drowns in creek

A heavy solvent user drowned and died after falling from a creek in Quiapo, Manila yesterday, the third alleged drug dependent to have died this week.

Investigators said the body of Michael Aguilar, 26, of 1121 Castillejos street, Quiapo, was fished out from a polluted creek along Hidalgo street after being discovered by early morning commuters.

No other signs of external injury was found on the victim.

Residents in the area described the victim as a heavy solvent sniffer. They also believed the victim, who earned his living as a barker, could have fallen and drowned in the creek while high on solvent.

Last Friday, Marlon Brando Sabado, 30, jobless, of 1750 San Jose street, Sampaloc was discovered lifeless by his relatives. His body was in a kneeling position while hanging from a street post.

He used a nylon cord wrapped around his neck with the end tied to the steel post, investigators said.

Police said the victim was a known drug dependent and was suffering from mental disorder due to the effects of heavy drug use.

On Wednesday, an 18-year-old man was found hanging inside his room in Quiapo, Manila.

Police said the body of Aldrin Chavez, of No. 14 Fraternal street, Quiapo, was discovered by his grandfather hanging by the beam in his room. He used an abaca rope to hang himself.

Investigators said the victim was a known drug dependent who had the habit of creating trouble every time he gets high.