PDEA: Drug deals now in malls

MANILA, Philippines - Shopping malls are now being used as venue for illegal drug transactions, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) said yesterday. 

PDEA director general Undersecretary Arturo Cacdac Jr. said several suspected drug peddlers were arrested by anti-narcotics agents selling shabu in malls.

He said that some drug couriers conduct their illegal trade in shopping centers on the belief that no policemen would apprehend them.

The illegal drug transactions usually happen in food courts, comfort rooms and parking areas, Cacdac said.

The PDEA chief urged security officers in malls to be vigilant.