2 arrested for selling dried cannabis in Zamboanga City

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Zamboanga del Sur—The local police here continue to track the shipment of dried cannabis leaves, known as marijuana, into the city after two crew of a passenger boat were arrested on Tuesday (Aug. 17) for selling some to undercover agents.

Colonel Rexmel Reyes, director of the Zamboanga City Police Office, said the shipment from Jolo, Sulu was tipped to authorities two months ago.

On Tuesday, police personnel arrested Tongko Tahil Sarabon, 51, of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, and Basri Hamuja Ampul, 31, of Jolo, Sulu in a buy-bust operation at the Phidco wharf in the village of Baliwasan Seaside.

Sarabon is said to be the chief engineer of the boat, while Ampul is its chief mate.

Reyes said the haul of dried marijuana leaves was considered high grade and was estimated to value around P360,000.

Several weeks back, the Army in Sulu busted a cannabis plantation in Sulu.

Reyes said the duo are now detained while awaiting the filing of charges.