Shabu seized in Nueva Vizcaya jail; warden sacked

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – The warden of the provincial government-run jail here has been removed from his post after last Saturday’s surprise raid yielded several sachets of suspected shabu and other illegal items in the jail premises.

Provincial administrator Edu Balgos yesterday said provincial warden Reynaldo Agaton was also sacked for testing positive for drug use and is now facing administrative charges.

The inmates were subjected to on-the-spot drug tests and 18 of them tested positive for drug use, too.

Besides Agaton, reports said at least four jail personnel have been recommended for suspension.

The provincial government has suspended visits to the jail following the raid.

“We will not condone any illegal activities. There will be no sacred cows here. Those found guilty will suffer the consequences of their action and let their fate serve as a warning to others that nobody can just do their vices,” Gov. Luisa Cuaresma said. – Charlie Lagasca, Raymund Catindig