DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 7 June) – Two police officers in Mati City, Davao Oriental were arrested after they tested positive for using shabu in a surprised drug test over the weekend.
Suspects SPO4 Nollo M. Barsaman and PO2 Jesus Mante Jr. were immediately placed under preventive suspension after laboratory examinations on urine samples showed that they were positive for the use of shabu.
In a telephone interview, Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 spokesperson Andrea dela Cerna told MindaNews that Barsaman, a chief executive senior police officer, went under inquest proceedings before the City Prosecutor’s Office Monday.
In a press statement, PRO-11 said assorted illegal drug paraphernalia were found inside the room of Barsaman inside the police station. These were brought to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory in Tagum City, Davao del Norte for further examination.
Both will face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. An administrative case of grave misconduct will be filed against Barsaman.
The two policemen are subject for termination proceedings, Dela Cerna said.
“The surprise random drug test is part of the campaign of the PNP to rid PRO 11 of drug users/protectors/traffickers disguising as police officers,” the statement read.
A press statement citing PRO 11 director Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan stated that he assured the “public that the PNP does not tolerate nor condone any irregularity among its ranks.”
“Majority of the police officers are professional, dedicated and can be depended upon by the community. We shall continue ridding our ranks of bad eggs and scalawags,” he said.