ILIGAN CITY — A 33-year-old man with a reported history of illegal drug use was arrested by authorities after he allegedly set his own mother’s house on fire in Barangay Upper Luinab on Sunday morning, July 26.
Personnel of the Iligan City Police Station 1 immediately responded to the incident, which occurred at around 7:10 a.m. in Purok 5, leading to the arrest of the suspect, identified only by the alias “Jay.”
According to the initial police investigation, the incident was preceded by the suspect allegedly discovering bloodstains near a banana plantation close to the area. Authorities said the suspect, who reportedly has a history of illegal drug use, allegedly reacted irrationally before setting his mother’s house ablaze.
Police have yet to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the fire or establish the exact motive behind the incident. Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the circumstances surrounding the case.
The suspect remains under the custody of Iligan City Police Station 1 while authorities prepare the appropriate criminal charges against him.
The incident once again underscores the destructive impact that illegal drug use can have not only on individuals but also on their families and communities. Law enforcement authorities have repeatedly warned that substance abuse can contribute to erratic and violent behavior, resulting in incidents that endanger lives and property. However, police have not stated that drug use was the confirmed cause of the suspect’s alleged actions in this case, and the investigation remains ongoing.