By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — An alleged member of the notorious Bahala Na Gang was arrested after police caught him in possession of suspected shabu during an anti-criminality operation in Malate, Manila on Sunday afternoon.
The suspect was identified as Renato Fernandez alias “Atong,” 36, a resident of Ma. Orosa Street, Barangay 699, Malate, Manila. Police said he was listed as a street-level individual (SLI) under monitoring by authorities.
The arrest took place at around 4:15 p.m. along Roxas Boulevard Service Road near the corner of Remedios Street in Barangay 699.
According to a report from Ermita Police Station 5, officers recovered a heat-sealed plastic sachet containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu from the suspect.
The confiscated illegal drug weighed approximately 2.5 grams and had an estimated street value of P17,000.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) under the supervision of PCPT Ruel Y. Bertulfo and Station Commander PLTCOL June Paolo O. Abrazado.
Police said the suspect was informed of his constitutional rights and the nature of the offense against him but chose to remain silent.
Fernandez now faces charges for violating Section 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The seized evidence will undergo forensic laboratory examination, while the case is being prepared for inquest proceedings before the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office.
ia/xf
