Catch cohorts of drug suspect nabbed near Palace – Bersamin

MANILA, Philippines — Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin yesterday called on law enforcers to run after the accomplices of a suspected drug pusher who was arrested at the Malacañang complex on Oct. 16.

Edgard Ventura was apprehended at a house on Nicanor Padilla street, San Miguel, Manila for allegedly pushing drugs in the area, according to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

The arrest was made as the NBI Dangerous Drugs Division and the Presidential Security Command implemented a search warrant issued by a Manila court.

The operation was conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the local police.

Bersamin commended the law enforcement agencies for the arrest of Ventura.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago said authorities raided the house after receiving reports about the rampant sale of illegal drugs in the area.

Nine plastic sachets containing shabu and drug paraphernalia were reportedly seized in the operation.

Charges were filed against Ventura before the Manila prosecutor’s office for violating Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Santiago said a manhunt is ongoing for Ventura’s cohorts.