ILOILO City – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) is currently monitoring several elected barangay officials allegedly linked to illegal drugs.
IPPO director Colonel Bayani Razalan confirmed during a press conference at the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) that fewer than 10 barangay officials are under surveillance for suspected involvement in illegal drug activities.
“We are keeping a close watch on incumbent punong barangays and kagawads allegedly involved in illegal drugs,” Razalan said.
However, Razalan declined to disclose further details on the identities of the officials being monitored, including whether they are suspected users, pushers, or protectors.
He also said the IPPO has already discussed the matter with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., who reportedly stressed that he will not tolerate any illegal activities involving elected officials.
Records from the IPPO showed that from January to June this year, seven barangay officials have already been arrested in connection with drug-related operations. These include three barangay chairpersons, three barangay councilors, and one Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairperson.
The latest operation took place on June 6 in Barangay Pajo, Lambunao, where a 31-year-old suspect identified only as alias “Elvis” of the town’s Barangay Natividad was arrested for possession of 30 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated standard drug price of P204,000.
Police intelligence reports indicated that the suspect had been under surveillance for nearly two months prior to his arrest due to his alleged involvement in a drug distribution network operating in Lambunao and nearby towns.
Meanwhile, PRO-6 sirector Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño warned barangay officials and government employees against involvement in illegal drugs.
“Kahit nasa gobyerno kayo or elected officials basta involved kayo sa illegal ay hindi kami mag alinlangan na hulihin kayo,” Tuaño said./PN
