Police arrested a couple who were concealing a firearm, a grenade and P200,000 worth of illegal drugs while striding along a street, shortly after they were confronted for violating health protocols in Taguig City.
In a report to Taguig City Police Office (TCPO) Chief Col. Celso Rodriguez, the suspects were identified as Hojieffee Esmael, alyas “Faisal” or “Ipay” and his live in partner Carmina Orellana, alias Mimay, 27, both residents of 184 E ML Quezon St., Purok-3, Barangay New Lower Bicutan.
Esmael and Orellana will have to face multiple charges in violation of RA 11332; RA 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearm and Ammunitions); RA 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosive) and RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
Initial investigations revealed that around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, when personnel of the Intelligence Section of the Taguig City Police led by Chief Master Sgt. Wilson Pacleb conducted an anti-criminality operation in an alley of ML Quezon St., Purok 3 when they spotted and confronted the couple who were not wearing face masks.
Esmael attempted to flee when approached by Pacleb’s team but was subdued immediately and one of the apprehending policemen got a gripped of his gun strapped to his waist when frisked.
Aside from the .45 caliber pistol, the police also discovered a sling bag containing several plastic sachets of shabu and a 40mm explosive cartridge.
A total of 36 grams of said illegal drugs worth P244,800 was seized from the couple.