The Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group acknowledged the contribution of Looc barangay kagawad Dandy Catada in the success of anti-drugs campaigns of the government, in previous years in Dumaguete City.

But PAID-SOTG team leader, Senior Insp. Ryan Jay Orapa, said that lately, reports coming from residents in the area, as well as investigations against drug suspects arrested, pointed to Catada as one to watch for, having a direct contact with sources in Muntinlupa.

Catada was very cooperative in the anti-drugs campaign, but persistent reports claimed he is allegedly involved in the illegal drugs trade himself, and is able to hide and cover his nefarious activity while performing his duties as barangay official.

Orapa disclosed a long surveillance operation was conducted on Catada, so as not to mistakenly accuse or shame him. The result was positive, and this prompted PAID-SOTG personnel to apply for a search warrant against the official.

As to accusations that PAID-SOTG operatives planted evidence in his residence, Orapa said the burden of proof is on the barangay official, and said they will not put their career and long years of service to nothing, because of just one incident.

Meanwhile, records showed that some police stations are way behind the quota of arresting top 10 illegal drugs personalities in their areas of jurisdictions.

Provincial Intelligence Branch-Special Operations Group provincial team leader, Senior Insp. Benedict Poblete, said it is possible that target personalities are no longer found in their AORs, have transferred residences or locations, or have stopped and become aware of the consequences if they continue with their illegal drugs trade.

He enjoined anti-drugs operatives all over the province not to lower their guard and continue the conduct of validation and surveillance operations with about two months left before the year ends.

In Dumaguete, eight of the top 10 illegal drug personalities have been neutralized, and jailed, with cases filed in courts.

This was confirmed by Dumaguete city police chief, Supt. Jovito Atanacio, who congratulated his men for their contribution to the success of the campaign.

Atanacio said the commendation will encourage the police to do more in the city's sustained efforts to combat all forms of criminality.*JG

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