2 Arrested, 2 Flee After Citizen’s Arrest Disrupts Drug Session in San Jose

• Two were arrested and two fled after citizens intervened to stop an alleged drug session in an abandoned house in Barangay 85, San Jose, on the afternoon of April 17, 2026.

Ronnie Yanuario 5 days ago 1.5 K

Posted on Apr. 22, 2026 at 8:11 am

TACLOBAN CITY — Two individuals were apprehended while two others managed to flee following a citizen’s arrest that disrupted an alleged drug session in an abandoned house in Barangay 85, San Jose, on the afternoon of April 17, 2026.

After receiving complaints from residents about groups entering unoccupied houses in the area, barangay officials, led by Chairman Ryan Val Deleña, conducted an inspection. The operation took place shortly after a regular barangay session.

At approximately 2:23 p.m. in Purok Lumong, authorities reportedly caught four individuals in the act of using illegal drugs. Two suspects evaded capture, while the remaining individuals were arrested on the spot under the principle of in flagrante delicto.

Barangay officials promptly coordinated with Tacloban City Police Station 1. Responding personnel, under the command of Station Commander PMaj. Kent Rivas confirmed the incident upon arrival.

A body search and inventory, conducted in the presence of witnesses, revealed around 2.6 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P17,680. Additionally, authorities seized drug paraphernalia, including a foil with residue, improvised tooters, lighters, a candle, a small container, and a Realme mobile phone.

The arrested suspects were identified as Louie Marcini Y. Aquino, 28, a resident of Barangay 85 with a prior drug-related arrest in 2025, and Arvie Labongray Y. Lago, 29, an air-conditioning installer from Barangay 99, Diit.

Deleña emphasized the significance of community vigilance in combating illegal drug activities, which have been associated with an increase in theft cases in the barangay. He encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities, especially those that may endanger young individuals.

The suspects are set to face charges for violations of Sections 11, 12, and 15, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. They are currently held at Tacloban City Police Station 1 pending the preparation of charges.

Authorities are actively pursuing the identification and apprehension of the two individuals who escaped.

(Photo by: Ronnie Yanuario)