Canadian linked to huge shabu haul charged

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government said Monday that illegal drug charges have been filed against a Canadian in connection with the seizure of 1.4 tons of shabu last April 15 in Alitagtag, Batangas.

In a press briefing, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said that violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of Republic Act 9165 was filed against Thomas Gordon also known as James Martin or «Queen» in Tagaytay City.

Local Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. and Philippine National Police Chief PGEN Rommel Marbil present Canadian Thomas Gordan, also known as James Martin, who is involved in the seizure of 1.4 tons of shabu in Alitagtag, Batangas, at a press conference on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Camp Crame in Quezon City. PHOTOS BY ISMAEL DE JUAN Local Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. and Philippine National Police Chief PGEN Rommel Marbil present Canadian Thomas Gordan, also known as James Martin, who is involved in the seizure of 1.4 tons of shabu in Alitagtag, Batangas, at a press conference on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Camp Crame in Quezon City. PHOTOS BY ISMAEL DE JUAN Local Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. and Philippine National Police Chief PGEN Rommel Marbil present Canadian Thomas Gordan, also known as James Martin, who is involved in the seizure of 1.4 tons of shabu in Alitagtag, Batangas, at a press conference on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Camp Crame in Quezon City. PHOTOS BY ISMAEL DE JUAN Local Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr. and Philippine National Police Chief PGEN Rommel Marbil present Canadian Thomas Gordan, also known as James Martin, who is involved in the seizure of 1.4 tons of shabu in Alitagtag, Batangas, at a press conference on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Camp Crame in Quezon City. PHOTOS BY ISMAEL DE JUAN

Abalos said that Martin was nabbed on the basis of a red notice from the International Criminal Police Organization.

Asked whether Martin had direct participation in the Batangas illegal drug haul, Abalos gave no further details, but said the suspect «was arrested on the basis of the red notice.»

On May 17, 2024, Martin underwent inquest proceedings at the office of the prosecutor in Manila. He