CEBU, Philippines – Dangerous Drugs Board Undersecretary Clarence Paul Oaminal is emphasizing the importance of the compliance of prescribed procedures in the seizure and custody of dangerous drugs.
In a circular passed on to all prosecutors, he pointed out the necessity of following the procedures when conducting operations on seizure of illegal drugs.
The circular focused on the importance of physical inventory and photography of the confiscated drugs during the operation which is to be done by police officers in the presence of the accused, a representative from the media, a representative from the Department of Justice, and an elected public official.
Oaminal said that the presence of the personnel mentioned is “very critical in order to prevent allegations of planting or taking away of evidence.”
The circular also said that the physical inventory and photography shall be made with or without a warrant. If a warrant is served, then the inventory shall be done in the said place.
But if it is a warrantless seizure, then the inventory and photography shall be done at the nearest police station or office of the apprehending team.
Oaminal explained that if the procedures are not followed, the apprehending team will be asked to explain and justify their actions.
He further said that all these procedures should be mandatory in all anti-drug operations and if not complied with, then the officers should give credible and enough evidence that the “integrity of the seized items is not tainted”. — AJ dela Torre/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)