NBI raises alarm over use of minors in drug trade

CEBU, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation Cebu District Office (NBI-CEBDO) has raised concerns over the alleged use of minors in the illegal drug trade following a buy-bust operation in Sitio Manga, Barangay Tisa, where a suspect was reportedly employing young girls to repack shabu.

NBI-CEBDO Agent-in-Charge Arnel Pura told reporters yesterday, June 17, that agents arrested 37-year-old Alvin Plando, a resident of the same barangay, on the afternoon of Monday, June 16.

Pura said the operation stemmed from reliable information that Plando had been using minors to repack illegal drugs.

“This is quite alarming and that’s why we have that urgent instruction to conduct appropriate action and rescue these alleged minors,” said Pura.

Seized during the operation were 18 medium-sized packets of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of ?270,000. Drug paraphernalia and equipment believed to be used for repacking the drugs were also confiscated.

The operation, conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), also led to the rescue of a 16-year-old girl, who is three months pregnant.

The NBI-CEBDO said the minor will be placed under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for proper intervention.

Pura added that both individuals were referred to the NBI Regional Office for drug testing. Results showed that the minor tested positive for drug use, while Plando tested negative.

Meanwhile, Agent-on-Case Atty. Niño Rodriguez said that based on their initial investigation, Plando specifically enlisted female minors for their meticulousness in repacking drugs, in exchange for money.

Rodriguez said the minors would usually assist Plando in repacking the illegal drugs in a shanty in Sitio Manga, where distribution appeared to be limited to the surrounding area.

Initial findings also revealed that the minor is the partner of Plando’s cousin. According to her statement to investigators, she was staying at the location after having a dispute with her partner.

However, the NBI-CEBDO said it has yet to determine the minor's exact role or involvement in Plando’s drug activities.

In a separate interview, Plando admitted that he was indeed selling drugs “for experience,” and claimed to have gained many customers despite being new to the trade.

However, he denied recruiting female minors for repacking.

“Dili na tinuod uy, mga barkada na nako. Sa wala pa ko naninda ana, anha gyud na sila sa akong balay mag-standby,” said Plando.

He insisted that while his friends were aware of his illegal activity, they were not involved.

“Dili na tinuod oy, mao ra na ilang mga marites ba,” he added, dismissing claims that the minors were helping him repack drugs.

Plando also claimed that when they gathered, it was only to drink alcohol and not to use drugs. He said he had no idea why the girl tested positive for drugs.

Plando will face charges for violating Sections 5, 11, and 12 of Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The minor, meanwhile, will face charges for violating Section 15 of the same law. — (FREEMAN)