Authorities discover ‘hi-tech’ shabu laboratory in Catanduanes

 

Joint elements of the Philippine National Police Region 5 and the Philippine Army discovered Saturday evening the first reported shabu laboratory in Virac, Catanduanes.

Catanduanes Police's Provincial Public Safety Company Commander Chief Insp. Charles de Leon said a search warrant was served following intelligence reports from various informants.

De Leon said that according to a drug suspect, the shabu laboratory was his source of drugs in Tabaco, Albay.

Also, De Leon said  barangay officials have claimed Chinese nationals oversee operations of the laboratory located in Brgy Palta Small.

Authorities coordinated with the Bureau of Fire Protection to inspect the facility but was twice denied entry by the caretaker, Lorenzo Penera, due to the absence of the owner.

On their third attempt, a certain Paulo Uy arrived at the laboratory but also denied authorities entry.

Angelica Balmadrid, owner of the real property, said a certain Jason Gonzalez Uy rents her place, showing the lease of contract.

Meanwhile, Chief Insp. Josephine Clemen of the Catanduanes Provincial Crime Laboratory confirmed the area is a shabu laboratory. 

Authorities recovered several chemicals and equipment commonly found in shabu laboratories.

Regional Director Sr. Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe described the equipment in the laboratory as "high tech." 

Only high-ranking police officials, Scene of the Crime Operatives, and the court judge who signed the search warrant were initially allowed to enter the facility.

Police arrested Penera and said they will conduct a follow-up operation on the facility. —report from Jinky Lou Tabor/Joseph Tristan Roxas/LBG/ALG, GMA News