Traffic violator caught with illegal drugs

MANILA, Philippines — A tricycle driver who was initially flagged down for a traffic violation in Caloocan City ended up being arrested by policemen after they found P40,000 worth of “shabu” (crystal meth) in his possession.

According to the police, Michael Isla was accosted for driving his motorcycle without a helmet on Monday. However, he tried to escape, leading to a chase on Doña Aurora Road.

The 30-year-old suspect, however, crashed his motorcycle and was cornered by the police. When Isla failed to present his driver’s license and other supporting documents for his motorcycle, he became uneasy, prompting the police to search his possessions.

They later found two sachets of shabu worth P40,800 in his coin purse.

The suspect will face charges for possession of illegal drugs, on top of driving an unregistered vehicle without a license and a helmet.

He is currently detained at the Caloocan police’s station drug enforcement unit.

Under Republic Act No. 10054, all motorcycle drivers and back riders are required to wear a standard protective helmet to ensure public safety.