CIB chief retires amid controversies

Criminal Investigation Bureau chief Delbert Sablan on Friday officially retired from service after almost 20 years and a brewing drug involvement controversy.

In an interview with reporters yesterday, Department of Public Safety Commissioner Charlie S. Ingram disclosed that he has received Mr. Sablan’s official notice of retirement which took effect April 13.

Mr. Sablan retired amid a controversy created by the oral testimony of self-confessed drug user Sonia Belyeu that implicated the CIB chief in a drug case.

Ms. Belyeu’s revelation allegedly put a damper on Mr. Sablan’s public service career. The CIB chief last week filed his retirement application after his eligibility was confirmed by the NMI Retirement Fund.

According to reports, Mr. Sablan has accumulated 20 years of government service. Speculations are rife that the CIB commander’s retirement was triggered by Ms. Belyeu’s controversial testimony.

Police officers close to the commander claimed Mr. Sablan was frustrated over the turn of events. He reportedly regarded the court case as a serious incident, therefore, allegations that he is involved in drug peddling adversely affected his reputation as CIB chief.

Efforts to reach Mr. Sablan were futile as he refused to give out additional details on his sudden retirement from government service. He is reportedly busying himself in several family-related activities.

Mr. Sablan is currently under investigation on his alleged involvement in hand-to-hand distribution of controlled substance. His name popped up after Ms. Belyeu told the federal court of her business with the CIB commander.

Following the turn of events, the public safety department immediately ordered a probe on Mr. Sablan. The investigation was focused at proving or disproving his alleged involvement in drug trade and other reports of police officers in cahoots with drug syndicates.

DPS also immediately implemented random drug testing of over 350 police officers and personnel in more than 11 offices under the department.

Mr. Ingram also disclosed the conduct of a pre-employment drug testing to newly-hired personnel to ensure that police officers and personnel are not drug users.

The commissioner explained the random testing was launched in response to a government-wide call to weed out public offices of officials and employees who either use or trade prohibited substances.

Results of the initial drug test are yet to be released. It includes use of marijuana, ice, and other unregulated drugs.

The drug examination will be extensive in order to provide comprehensive results. (EGA)