Bacolod Man Linked to Residential Fire Arrested for Illegal Drugs

Authorities apprehended Fritz Erespe, 49, a resident of Barangay 30 in Bacolod City, on Sunday for drug-related offenses. Erespe, identified by the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) as a street-level dealer, was found in possession of approximately 2 grams of suspected shabu, valued at around P13,600.

Erespe's rented residence, shared with his live-in partner, was reportedly the initial location of the recent residential fire in Barangay 27. According to the Bacolod City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze originated from faulty electrical wiring at this property.

Despite these allegations, Erespe denied any responsibility for the fire, citing the BFP's findings that attributed the incident to electrical ignition and tapping rather than arson. He also expressed concern over community hostility, stating, "I am afraid to go to the evacuation center to get some benefits because of the threat that my neighbors are expressing towards me."

Police Captain Rosalino Pugoy, commander of Bacolod City Police Office Station 4, noted that the testimonies from displaced residents largely implicate Erespe. "It is natural that he will deny it, but the allegations are pointing to him," Pugoy remarked. He advised residents wishing to file formal complaints to coordinate with the BFP for appropriate action.

Furthermore, Pugoy emphasized that Erespe has been under police surveillance following his identification as a drug dealer. The suspect is currently detained and will face criminal charges under Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165, known as the Dangerous Drugs Act, as the legal process proceeds.