Road clearing operations lead to 3 drug suspects’ arrest

MANILA, Philippines — A road clearing operation led to the arrest of three men who were reportedly caught using drugs in Barangay Old Balara, Quezon City, on Sunday.

Col. Ronnie Montejo, acting director of the Quezon City police, said that several of his men were helping barangay personnel clear Laura Street of shanties when they found three men using “shabu” (crystal meth) around 10:30 a.m.

The suspects, all residents of Barangay Old Balara, were identified as Raymond Dery, 26; Ryan Ricamata, 39 and Jonalyn Ricamata, 40.

Seized from them were two sachets of shabu, five coiled foil strips and two lighters. The suspects were charged with violating Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. —Mariejo S. Ramos