3 friends nabbed in QC buy bust for P1M worth of marijuana found in their possession

Three friends were arrested in Quezon City for possession of marijuana worth more than P1 million, James Agustin reported on Saksi on Monday.

The target of the buy bust operation conducted by the police in Barangay Bagbag, Novaliches in Quezon City were: Elton John Pangilinan, Christian Paul San Jose, and Rhay Van Lumano.

The police seized at least 9 kilos of suspected marijuana that cost more than P1 million from the suspects.

They admitted that they were selling marijuana.

"Pangangailangan lang po. Dahil po sa pangangailangan," said Pangilinan.

(Just for needs. Due to needs.)

When asked where they get the drugs, he replied "No comment."

"Dala lang po ng pinansiyal," said San Jose, who also said they have been selling marijuana for less than a year.

(Due to financial [needs].)

"Dala din po ng pangangailangan," said Lumano, adding "pinansiyal."

(Also due to needs, financial [needs].)

Novaliches Police Station Commander Police Lieutenant Colonel Jerry Castillo said they received a report from a concerned citizen that sales of marijuana is rampant in the area.

The police said the suspects began renting the apartment last June and they do not meet with their clients.

"Iniiwan 'yung pera tapos umaalis 'yung tao. Tapos 'pag nakuha ng mga suspect itong pera, iniiwan din 'yung drugs tapos pini-pick up. 'Dead drop' ang tawag diyan,"said Castillo.

(The buyer would leave the money then go. Then the suspect will get the cash, then leave the drugs which will be picked up. That is called a 'dead drop'.)

"Sa isang linggo, kaya nilang ubusin ang 10 kilos. So that is, sa DDB (Dangerous Drugs Board) value ng marijuana is P1.2 million in a week," he added.

(In a week, they can sell 10 kilos. So based on the DDB [estimate], the value of marijuana [sold] is P1.2 million in a week.)

Those who pick up the drugs are from Talipapa and Batasan in Quezon City, police said.

A complaint related to the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act has been filed against the suspects. — BAP/KG, GMA Integrated News