THE DAVAO City Jail Annex has intensified security measures following the discovery of a package containing suspected shabu lobbed from the outside on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at around 6:30 a.m.
In an interview on Thursday, Jail Warden Supt. Ericley Louise Lazaro reported that personnel found the package wrapped with cloth near the perimeter fence in an open garden area used by inmates. More or less 20 packs of shabu and tobacco were seized with no estimated amount yet.
Lazaro said the early morning darkness prevented them from identifying the culprit, though they heard something thrown into the grounds.
“This incident coincides with a routine ‘Greyhound Operation’ conducted by jail authorities, which focuses on searching for contraband within the facility. Thankfully, no illegal drugs were found during the internal search,” he said.
Not the first attempt
“This isn’t the first attempt to smuggle contraband inside the jail,” said Supt. Lazaro. “Just two months ago, someone tried using a drone.” He added that authorities have filed cases against individuals involved in previous smuggling attempts.
Lazaro outlined the jail’s response: first to increase vigilance among jail personnel, who were reminded to maintain heightened awareness during their shifts.
Second, safety nets will be installed along the perimeter fence to prevent similar incidents and catch any drones used for smuggling.
Lastly, an additional security survey has been conducted and further reinforcements will be implemented to deter future attempts.
Meanwhile, the confiscated package containing the suspected shabu has been turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region XI for testing and safekeeping.
The Davao City Jail Annex currently has a staff of 104 personnel working in three rotating shifts.
