The Philippine National Police stepped up operations against illegal drugs this week, seizing nearly P18 million worth of shabu in separate operations in Cebu province and Zamboanga City.
The PNP Regional Office 7 (PRO-VII) reported a successful buy-bust operation that resulted in the seizure of P11 million worth of shabu, along with one unit of a Smith and Wesson .22 caliber revolver, and other drug-related paraphernalia.
The Provincial Intelligence Unit/Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit of Cebu Police Provincial Office, in collaboration with Consolacion Municipal Police Station, executed the raid on April 10 and arrested a 46-year-old high-profile drug suspect, who is currently in police custody at Consolacion MPS.
Earlier, the PNP Regional Office 9 (PRO IX) seized an estimated P6.8 million in shabu after a similar buy-bust operation on April 9 at Barangay Talisayan, Zamboanga City.
It was conducted jointly by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEA) IX – Intelligence and Investigation Service, PDEA IX – Zamboanga City Office and PDEA IX – Regional Special Enforcement Team as the lead unit, with the Technical Support Company of Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9 (RMFB 9).
Two suspects were arrested as police confiscated a kilogram of shabu, black and gold aluminum foil packs, labelled Fresco Dried Durian used as a container for the drugs, a P1,000 bill, ten bundles of P1,000 bills used as boodle money, and a mobile phone.
The suspects and confiscated substances are now under the custody of PDEA IX.
The suspects will be charged for violation of sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165 and RA 10591.
Police Brigadier General Anthony Aberin, PRO7 Regional Director, commended the operating teams for their unwavering efforts in reducing the supply of illegal drugs in Central Visayas.
“Their consistent supply reduction strategy has yielded positive outcomes, which is a testament to their commitment to creating a safer community,” Aberin said.
“This significant breakthrough is a clear indication that PRO7’s intelligence-driven efforts are effective, and the community in Central Visayas should be assured that we will continue to pursue those who engage in illegal drug activities relentlessly,” he stated.
Meanwhile, PRO9 chief, Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding, said: “We applaud the joint efforts of RMFB 9 and PDEA IX in the apprehension of these 2 drug suspects and seizure of P6.8 million worth of shabu.”
“The Police Regional Office 9 is committed to continuously collaborating with the other law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the well-being and security of the community,” he added.