SPPF officials relieved over contraband smuggling attempt

Two officials from the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm (SPPF), including Camp Commander C/CINSP Francisco Madrid, have been relieved and reassigned to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) National Headquarters for investigation following a contraband smuggling attempt.

The incident involved a dump truck driver, Rob Antaran, who presented a permit signed by Madrid to deliver gravel and sand concealing contraband.

Antaran aroused suspicion when he refused to unload his cargo, citing a malfunctioning hydraulic system, and later confessed that prohibited items were hidden within the load after further questioning.

Authorities recovered over 200 bottles of alcohol, numerous packs of cigarettes, and tobacco from the dump truck.

BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. ordered the investigation and is looking into the involvement of other BuCor personnel.