By Benjamin Cuaresma
A 33-year-old woman listed as a wanted person for illegal drug possession was arrested by operatives of the Manila Police District (MPD)-Delpan Police Station during a manhunt operation in Tondo, Manila.
Police identified the suspect as Mary Jane Rivera Batica, also known as “Jane,” single, unemployed, and a resident of Purok 4, Isla Puting Bato, Barangay 20, Tondo, Manila.
According to the police report, Batica was apprehended at around 4:45 p.m. on May 25, 2026 along an alley in Purok 4, Isla Puting Bato.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the Intelligence and Warrant and Subpoena Section of Delpan Police Station (PS-12), led by PLT Ferdinand G. Omli under the direct supervision of Station Commander PLTCOL Felimon B. Cacap.
Authorities said Batica was arrested by virtue of a bench warrant issued by Judge Danilo D. Leyva of the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 175 dated May 5, 2026 under Criminal Case No. R-MNL-21-07736-CR.
Court records showed that the accused was facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, particularly Article II, Section 11 involving possession of dangerous drugs.
The warrant stated that Batica allegedly failed to appear before the court during a scheduled hearing, prompting the issuance of the arrest order. Bail for her temporary release was set at P5,000.
The warrant also directed law enforcers to use body-worn cameras or alternative recording devices during the implementation of the arrest, in compliance with Supreme Court Administrative Matter No. 21-06-08-SC.
Police said operatives used an iPhone as an Alternative Recording Device (ARD) during the operation.
Following her arrest, Batica was informed of her constitutional rights in Tagalog by Pat. James Jamerlan.
She is currently detained at the custodial facility of Delpan Police Station pending the return of the warrant of arrest to the issuing court.
ia/xf
