Investigations into drowning and smuggling incidents at DOC in Lao Lao continue | Local news

Nearly a month after the fatal diving incident at the Lao Lao Dive Site and the incident in which a mysterious person threw contraband into the courtyard of the correctional bureau, the public security bureau said there had been no new developments in the cases as of Tuesday, although investigations are still ongoing.

The incidents both occurred in mid-May, just days apart; the smuggling incident occurred on May 22 and the drowning on May 17.

According to the Department of Corrections, on May 22 at 9:39 a.m., a man was observed throwing an object over the prison fence into the prison’s crowded playing field while inmates were playing basketball in their free time. A search was immediately launched and a description of the suspect and even surveillance footage were released, but as of now, the case remains unsolved.

DOC Commissioner Anthony Torres said Saipan Tribune that the investigations had not been discontinued.

“I’ve been checking in and checking in with my internal investigations unit and DPS investigators every day. There are a few leads and a few suspects that they’re investigating.”

Torres was also able to shed light on what the contraband was.

“When I discovered the contraband, I initially thought it was tobacco. However, to rule out my suspicion that it was Spice or synthetic marijuana, I asked DPS to test it. It tested positive for marijuana. The compounds found in Spice can vary and are not easily detected with traditional drug tests that test for THC or other common drugs.” He encourages anyone in the community with information to please pass it on.

“I will update the community as soon as DPS has more information or makes an arrest. I ask the community to call Crime Stoppers, DPS or DOC if they have any information that can assist in the investigation.”

The investigation into the fatal drowning accident began after a 41-year-old Chinese man drowned at the Lao Lao Dive Site on May 17 last year. After further investigation, DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas announced that the DPS found that Qi Wei Shi, the alleged dive instructor, fled the CNMI within 24 hours of the incident and brought his family back to China. Authorities found that Shi operated an unlicensed dive shop and did not have certification as a dive instructor.

During the investigation, it was discovered that the scuba gear used in the incident had been left at a rental car location in Koblerville. The equipment was picked up by unknown persons before DPS could retrieve it. Fortunately, DPS was able to recover the equipment and GoPro footage, which were forensically examined. DPS has not yet released the updates on the footage.

During a press conference on May 24, Macaranas stressed that while the case is currently being treated as a drowning case, the investigation could lead to further charges. He cited cooperation problems with some of those involved, but efforts are being made to gather all necessary information. He also cited the DPS’s determination to uncover the full circumstances of the incident and hold those responsible accountable, particularly emphasizing the dangers associated with operating unlicensed businesses in the CNMI.

While the investigation is ongoing, DPS remains open to citizen tips that may help solve these cases. Anyone who may have new information is asked to call (670) 664-9000 or Crime Stoppers at (670) 234-7272.