Two Arrested for Illegal Gambling and Shabu in Pasig During Patrol
In Pasig City, a regular anti-criminality patrol led to the arrest of two men who were caught in the act of illegal gambling while also found to be in possession of illegal drugs. The incident underscores the ongoing efforts of local authorities to curb illegal activities and drug trafficking in the area. The Eastern Police District (EPD) identified the suspects as Mark, 39, and Lester, 45, who were nabbed under the Meralco Avenue flyover in Barangay San Antonio around 12 a.m. on Thursday, October 9.
The officers from the Pasig City Police Station Sub-Station 1 reported that the men were engaged in a game commonly referred to in informal betting circles as “Cara y Cruz.” While the gambling activity was the focal point of the arrest, authorities also found the suspects in possession of illegal drugs, adding a drug-related charge to the case.
Authorities recovered from the suspects three sachets of suspected shabu totaling 7.5 grams, with an estimated value of 51,000 Philippine pesos. In addition to the drugs, the officers seized gambling paraphernalia and 520 pesos in bet money. The combined find indicates a staged, potentially nightly operation that blends gaming with drug distribution, which is a persistent concern for law enforcement in densely populated urban centers.
Another Arrest Linked to Separate Buy-Bust Operation
Concurrently, a separate operation led to the arrest of another suspect identified as Olem, 35, during a buy-bust conducted by the District Drug Enforcement Unit (DDEU) in Barangay Sta. Lucia at approximately 3:40 a.m. On this suspect, authorities confiscated two sachets of suspected shabu weighing 10.56 grams, with an estimated value of about 71,808 pesos. The DDEU operation emphasizes the different tactical approaches used by the police to disrupt drug networks at various times and locations within Pasig City.
All three individuals are currently in police custody as the investigations proceed. The Pasig City Police are coordinating with the EPD to determine any additional links to larger drug distribution networks and to gather more evidence that could lead to additional charges if warranted.
What This Means for the Community
Law enforcement officials say the case highlights the importance of visible policing and regular patrols in deterring illegal activities that affect neighborhoods. Illegal gambling and drug use not only destabilize public safety but may also attract other criminal elements. By conducting routine patrols under busy urban corridors—such as the Meralco Avenue flyover—the police are aiming to disrupt these activities early and prevent potential violence or crime escalation.
Residents are encouraged to report concerns about illegal gambling, drug activities, or similar disturbances to local authorities. Community tips, when properly verified, can assist officers in planning targeted operations and safeguarding neighborhoods without compromising public safety or due process.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The suspects are undergoing standard processing procedures. Investigators will review CCTV footage, collect testimonies from witnesses, and test the seized substances to confirm the presence and type of drugs. Depending on the outcome, additional charges relating to illegal gambling, possession of illegal drugs, and possible drug trafficking could be pursued. The Pasig City Police remain committed to thorough investigations and ongoing cooperation with the public to maintain safety and order in the city.
