EXPLOSIVES SEIZED. Police operatives and the PHP3.5 million worth of explosives and raw materials recovered in Burabod village, San Antonio, Northern Samar on Sunday (Sept. 20, 2020). The police said the explosives are intended for illegal fishing. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar police)
TACLOBAN CITY – Policemen recovered on Sunday at least PHP3.5 million worth of explosives and raw materials meant for blast fishing in the island town of San Isidro, Northern Samar.
The recovery of said explosives and components in the town’s Burabod village was the result of intelligence-driven operation and follow-up investigation conducted after an explosion incident that occurred in San Antonio town last Sept. 17, the Philippine National Police Northern Samar provincial office reported on Monday.
Philippine National Police-Northern Samar provincial director Col. Arnel Apud said operatives recovered 34 kilos of trinitrotoluene, 25,000 pieces of blasting caps, and 3.5 meters of detonating cord.
The seized explosives and raw materials were immediately brought to the San Antonio municipal police station for documentation and turned over to the PNP-Northern Samar explosive ordnance and canine unit for safekeeping and proper disposition.
“The recovered items are the primary components in making improvised dynamite allegedly used in illegal fishing,” Apud said in a statement.
He also emphasized that the PNP will be conducting a decisive and thorough investigation to identify the owners of the explosives.
"What is more significant is the fact we were able to seize PHP3.5 million worth explosives that could be possibly used in destructing our marine ecosystem and even human lives. Our investigation will continue, and we ensure that those found liable will face appropriate charges," Apud added.
Known for white beaches, San Antonio is a fifth class town in Northern Samar province with a population of over 9,000. It is located off the western coast of Samar Island at the south end of San Bernardino Strait that separates Bicol Peninsula and Samar Island. (PNA)
