CATARMAN, Northern Samar –– At least P3.5 million worth of explosives were recovered by policemen in a small village on San Antonio island in Northern Samar.
Police Superintendent Arnel Apud, provincial director in Northern Samar, said the items were the primary components in making improvised dynamite used in illegal fishing.
The seized items include 34 kilos of Tri-Nitro Toluene (TNT), 25,000 pieces blasting caps, and 3.5 meters of detonating cord with an estimated market value of P3.5 million, according to the press statement from the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO).
The police scoured the area after a big explosion transpired on the island on September 17.
The owners of the explosive materials are yet to be identified.
“What is more significant is the fact that we were able to seize P3.5 million worth of explosives that could be possibly used in destroying our marine ecosystem. Our investigation will continue, and we ensure that those found liable will face appropriate charges,” Apud said.
San Antonio island is located some 41.5 kilometers from the capital town of Catarman with ten barangays and a population of 9,058 people, based on the 2015 census.
It is a popular tourist destination in the province because of its white beaches and beautiful resorts, some of which are owned by foreigners.