By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) director, Police Senior Superintendent Francisco Ebreo, yesterday revealed they are presently validating information to determine if suspected drug lord Michael Divinagracia is currently operating within Bacolod City.

Ebreo said, at the moment, it is still unclear if Divinagracia is actively maintaining a drug business in the city.

However, he did identify the city as a transhipment point for illegal drugs in Negros.

“If we have to look at the city, we have two ports, but if you look at the island as a whole, we have a lot of other ports which could serve as possible entry points,” Ebreo said.

He also said the recent seizure of P18 million worth of shabu in Dumangas, Iloilo made a significant impact on the city’s illegal drug trade.

Regarding comments made by Silay City Mayor Mark Golez, ordering the capture of the local drug lord “dead or alive,” Ebreo said they would exercise restraint if provided the opportunity to apprehend Divinagracia.

Although, he offered a stern warning to Divinagracia, and the other drug suspects, indicating law enforcement would not hesitate to use “excessive force” if they fight back and resist arrest.

“I know our police officers here are very careful and they know their limitations,” Ebreo added.

Aside from Divinagracia, Ebreo revealed they are also monitoring “new players” in the city’s illegal drug trade./DGB, WDJ