PHP 1.02 million in shabu seized in Negros Oriental

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — An alleged high-value individual (HVI) was arrested in a drug bust that yielded PHP 1.02 million worth of suspected shabu in Barangay Batinguel, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, on Friday, Jan. 2.

The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) identified the suspect as “Melsac,” 46, of Barangay Taclobo, Dumaguete City.

The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office seized 150 grams of suspected shabu from the suspect, along with the marked money.

According to PRO-NIR, the suspect had previously been arrested for allegedly selling illegal drugs.

He will face charges for violating Sections 5 (sale of dangerous drugs) and 11 (possession of dangerous drugs) of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Man killed by lightning on New Year’s Day

A 43-year-old laborer died after being struck by lightning in Purok Toril, Barangay Jonob-Jonob, Escalante City, Negros Occidental, on New Year’s Day.

Police Capt. Lindsey Caraballe, deputy chief of the Escalante City Police Station, said the victim was preparing milk for his child when lightning struck during heavy rainfall at around 6 a.m.

The victim was directly hit, burning his clothes. He was declared dead at a nearby hospital.