Arrested cop found positive for drug use

Despite his denial, the controversial policeman who was arrested by the elements of Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Branch for possession of drug paraphernalia was found positive for using shabu.

Earlier, PO1 Richard Rosacena, a member of the Mandaue City Police Office, denied reports that he has been using illegal drugs prior to his arrest in sitio Sampaguita, barangay Tejero.

But CIIB chief Paul Labra yesterday said that they already received the result of the drug test conducted by the police crime laboratory showing Rosacena was positive for drug use.

Labra said the result would serve as evidence in the administrative complaint to be filed against Rosacena. "I had talked with RD (Regional Director Silverio) Alarcio and the regional director is serious in filing administrative complaint against the police officer and that's aside from the criminal complaint."

The administrative complaint will be forwarded to Philippine National Police Regional Internal Affairs Service, which will conduct an investigation against Rosacena.

The CIIB has been receiving reports that Rosacena was frequenting the area to ask protection money from suspicious personalities.

"Dili lang siya (Rosacena) mangayo og money kun di mogamit g'yud og shabu," Labra said.

Rosacena was arrested last Sunday together with a certain Agnes Leah Montebon, also of barangay Tejero. Arresting officers recovered from the suspects 40 strips of aluminum foils, a cutter, a metal clip and an unlicensed .45 pistol with five live bullets.

A drug complaint was filed last Monday against Rosacena and Montebon before the Cebu City Prosecutor's Office but they then filed a waiver to give them 10 days to submit their counter-affidavits.

Both Rosacena and Montebon are now detained at the Cebu City Police Office detention cell. - Ramil V. Ayuman