Kerwin's arrest raises optimism on drug probe

ALBUERA, Leyte, Oct. 18 (PNA) –- The local police here is glad that suspected high-profile drug lord in Eastern Visayas Rolando “Kerwin” Espinosa, Jr. who went hiding is finally in custody of the authorities following his arrest in Abu Dhabi early Monday.

Chief Insp. Jovie Espenido, the chief of police of Albuera, Espinosa’s hometown, expressed fulfilment that the hard labor he and his entire team eventually bore fruit, resulting to filing of charges to those who allegedly participated in the drug activities of the group.

The arrest of the younger Espinosa, who has four standing warrants of non-bailable offenses, may pave way to the closure of investigation, according to Espenido.

With this development, Espenido apologized to those involved, especially to his contemporaries whose names appeared in the lists that allegedly received drugs money from the Espinosa group.

He admitted that he has not even the slightest idea who was on the payola list until these were revealed by Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa, Sr. and their trusted aides.

“We are all prepared for Kerwin’s confirmation and verification of all names listed in blue book, pink book and pocket book once he arrives. It is him who can prove the authenticity of those in the list and their participation,” the local police chief said.

He referred to the documents containing names of personalities assumed to have received payolas from the illegal drug trade of the suspect.

Kerwin is expected to return to the country anytime for the return of issued warrant to its court of origin.

“I am happy that at least the filing of charges will end. After all, it is what everybody has been waiting for. The people have been expecting that once Kerwin surrenders or arrested, the drug menace in Eastern Visayas is over. He is the last to surrender in his group,” Espenido added.

If given a chance, the drug buster cop plans to extend sincere and genuine debriefing to Kerwin. For this, he is optimistic the suspected big-time drug lord will fully cooperate in the investigation.

The elder Espinosa was arrested with the same offenses on Oct. 5, a day after the arrest order was issued. He is currently detained at sub-provincial jail in Baybay. When arrested, he was at the time under protective custody of the cops due to alleged threats. (PNA)

JMC/SQM/ERR/EGR