Cop arrested with drugs

CEBU, Philippines — A policeman assigned at the Carbon Police Station in Cebu City was arrested early morning Tuesday after he was identified by a drug suspect as the alleged supplier.

PO1 Jayrome Solano, 36, was arrested at the place he was renting in Barangay Kasambagan.

Police recovered one medium and one small sized sachets of suspected shabu, both weighing 5.7 grams with an estimated market value of P2,124, and assorted drug paraphernalia.

Also arrested was Solano’s girlfriend, Maria Ester Montiano, 23. The police said they caught the couple having a drug session.

The couple refused to comment but the woman’s mother told The FREEMAN her daughter was never into drugs and went to Solano’s place only to visit the policeman. She said the two are in a relationship for less than a year.

Mabolo police chief Clark Arriola said Solano is considered a high-value target while Montiano is considered a street-value target.

The drug enforcement unit of the Mabolo police conducted the operation on Solano following an operation in Barangay Luz, which led to the arrest of Venessa Larrobis, 25, who pointed to Solano as her alleged supplier of illegal drugs.

Larrobis was arrested with Orlando Ong, 37, and Allaine James Alcaraz, 27, also allegedly in a pot session.

Police Regional Office (PRO) - 7 Director Robert Quenery said charges have been filed against Solano and the cop is now in detention.

Quenery said he also ordered the relief of Solano’s superior at the Carbon police, Chief Insp. Jacinto Mandal.

“I also relieved his station commander for command responsibility. Administrative relief pending investigation, (and part of) command responsibility. Tao nya yan eh. He should somehow know the activities of your men,” Quenery said.

Mandal, for his part, said he accepted the relief as he also served as “father” to the erring cop.

He said Solano is a capable officer, but lamented on the fact that Solano still chose the wrong path despite the guidance he provided him.

“That is part of command responsibility isip usa ka amahan. Mao na’y mga consequence nato. Workers gud nato na sya. Despite sa atong pahimangno, nagkaliwas man gyud siya,” Mandal said.

Taking Mandal's post is Chief Insp. Allan Rosario. (FREEMAN)