Case vs man caught with bullet at Manila port dismissed

The Manila Prosecutors Office has dismissed for further investigation the case against an individual over alleged possession of a bullet at the Manila North Harbor Port early this week.

Luisito Solitario, 45, was arrested after a live 9-mm bullet was found in his luggage during X-ray examination at the passenger terminal complex in Pier 4 on Sunday.

In a two-page resolution, Manila City Prosecutor Edward Togonon said the recovered bullet should be subjected to a ballistic examination.

“There is a need to subject the recovered bullet to ballistic examination and/or finger print lifting to determine its real source and/or owner. Without that, evidence would be insufficient to indict suspect/respondent,” read the ruling.

The prosecutor cited the similarity of the circumstances with other cases, “thereby fueling speculations about the possible operation of a ‘laglag/tanim bala’ syndicate.”

Solitario was assisted by public attorney’s office during inquest proceedings.

Earlier this week, 12 individuals arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for possession of bullets have been ordered released from detention.

Those ordered release were Rufina Cruz, Melody Valdez, Marlou Espanola, Rowena Otic, Milagros Cadiente, Mildred Botog, Ma. Josephine Rabano, Shine Enola, Rey Salado, Ryan Rosales, Santiago Cabrera and Gloria Ortinez.

They were also assisted by the public attorney’s office during inquest proceedings.

The other day, the charges against 72-year-old Antonina Agustin, who was also apprehended at the Naia, was dismissed for lack of probable cause.

Prosecutors cited the lack of criminal intent in Agustin’s possession of 9-mm and .38-cal. bullets in her luggage and accepted her defense that they served as amulets to protect her from sickness wherever she went.