Probes continue in Lao Lao drowning, DOC contraband incidents
Nearing a month since the fatal diving incident at the Lao Lao Dive Site and the mysterious person throwing contraband over into the Department of Corrections courtyard, and although still under investigation, the Department of Public Safety shared that, as of Tuesday, there has been no new development in the cases.
The incidents both took place mid-May just days apart from each other with the contraband incident happening on May 22 and the drowning on May 17.
According to the Department of Corrections on May 22, at 9:39am, a man was seen hurling an object over the DOC fence into the DOC’s full court as inmates were spending recreational time playing basketball. A search immediately went underway, and a description of the suspect, and even security footage was released but as of now the case is still unsolved.
DOC Commissioner Anthony Torres shared with Saipan Tribune that, on his end, their investigations haven’t stopped.
“I have been checking up on that and following up everyday with my Internal Affairs Unit and DPS detectives. There are a few leads and a few suspects they are looking into.”
Torres was also able to shed light on just what the contraband was.
“Upon initial recovery of the contraband, it was first thought to be tobacco; however, to rule out my assumption of it being spice or synthetic marijuana, I asked DPS to test it. It tested positive for marijuana. The compounds found in spice can vary, and they are not easily detected by typical drug tests that screen for THC or other common drugs.” He encourages anyone in the community who may have some information to please share it.
“I will let the community know, as soon as DPS has more information or makes an arrest. I do ask the community to call Crime Stoppers, DPS, or DOC if they have any information that can help the investigation.”
As for the fatal drowning, investigation has begun after a 41-year-old Chinese man drowned at the Lao Lao Dive Site last May 17. Upon further investigation DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas revealed that DPS discovered Qi Wei Shi, the supposed dive instructor, fled the CNMI within 24 hours of the incident, taking his family back to China. Authorities discovered Shi was operating an unlicensed dive shop and lacked certification as a dive instructor.
During the investigation, it was found that the dive equipment used in the incident had been left at a Koblerville rental car shop. The gear was picked up by unknown individuals before DPS could retrieve it. Fortunately, DPS managed to recover the equipment and GoPro footage, which were put under forensic examination. DPS has not yet released the updates on the footage.
During a press conference last May 24, Macaranas emphasized that while the case is currently treated as a drowning, the investigation could lead to other charges. He noted the cooperation issues with some involved parties, but efforts are ongoing to gather all necessary information. He also noted DPS’ commitment to uncovering the full circumstances of the incident and holding those responsible accountable, especially highlighting the dangers of operating unlicensed businesses in the CNMI.
As the investigations continue, DPS is still open for any tips community members may have that could lead to solving these cases, and encourage individuals who may have new information to call (670) 664-9000 or Crime Stoppers at (670) 234-7272.
Anthony Torres
Anthony Macaranas
