Top cops inspect Kerwin’s detention cell

PALO, Leyte, Oct. 29 (PNA) – Top officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) inspected the Leyte provincial jail to check on its security measures as high profile drug kingpin Kerwin Espinosa is considered to be detained there.

PNP Eastern Visayas Chief Supt. Elmer C. Beltejar led the inspection of the prison facility on Friday in Kauswagan village, this town.

Espinosa was arrested in Abu Dhabi on Oct. 17 after an overseas worker tipped off authorities about his presence in United Arab Emirates.

Beltejar said that although Espinosa’s deportation might take a month to process, the PNP was considering options on where to detain him.

Espinosa’s father, Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa, Sr. was detained at Leyte sub-provincial jail in Baybay City, just 20 minutes drive from their hometown.

He was arrested on Oct. 5 on charges of illegal possession of firearms and drugs, the same charges filed against the younger Espinosa.

The son has been in and out of jail for a number of times on several charges.

Meanwhile, Beltejar told reporters that the 15 vehicles owned by Espinosa’s and kept by individuals were turned over to Albuera police station.

“The police impounded the vehicles at the station and we are just waiting for the Deed of Donation from the mayor and that includes the residential house, which will be converted to a drug rehabilitation center,”

The government is also set to freeze the properties, finances and the financial investments of the family.

Beltejar said the Zelan hotel, which is owned by the Espinosa’s, might be closed for failure to pay electric bill since the surrender of mayor in August. (PNA)
RMA/SQM/Vicky C. Arnaiz/egr