BuCor to probe sale, use of illegal drugs in Zamboanga penal farm

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9) — Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Catapang on Tuesday ordered a probe into the alleged involvement of bureau personnel and persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in the sale and use of illegal drugs inside the San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF) in Zamboanga City.

The order came after Aharayam Jaidi, wife of a PDL, tested positive for drug use.

Catapang said Jaidi was arrested while trying to smuggle in 2.7 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱18,000 that was stashed inside her bra and underwear while visiting her husband.

"Jaidi was turned over to the Zamboanga Police Station for investigation and appropriate filing of the case," Catapang added.

The BuCor chief also said four PDLs were caught by their cell leader having a pot session on May 5 at around 7:30 p.m.

"This prompted the SRPPF officials to subject the eight PDLs who shared the same cell to a drug test and seven, including the husband of Jaidi, were found to be positive for drug use," he added.

Catapang said visitation at the SRPPF was suspended on May 6 to give way to the investigation.