Canadian in Batangas P9.6 billion shabu haul to face raps

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) will file charges against a Canadian who was implicated in the recovery of shabu valued at P9.6 billion in Alitagtag, Batangas on April 15.

The National Prosecution Service of the DOJ issued a resolution recommending the filing of charges against Thomas Gordon O’ Quinn for two counts of violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act and Article 178 of the Revised Penal Code for using fictitious names.

Police said O’Quinn, who was arrested at a spa in Tagaytay on May 16, was found in possession of 45 grams of shabu, 81.65 grams of cocaine and 14 identification cards bearing his photos with different names.

The DOJ said it found the evidence submitted by the Bureau of Immigration and Philippine National Police sufficient.

“We want no part of international fugitives,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said. ”You may have evaded the laws of your country, but not ours.”

The DOJ said O’Quinn’s alleged involvement in the Alitagtag drug haul would undergo case buildup and preliminary investigation “to determine his particular participation and the involvement of other individuals.”

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos had earlier said authorities have solid evidence linking O’Quinn to the seizure of the P9.6-billion shabu at a police checkpoint in Barangay Pinagkurusan.

Police arrested the driver of the van identified as Michael Zarate Ajalon, whose cohorts are believed to include O’Quinn.