A buy-bust operation conducted on September 11, 2024, around 9:30 PM at Purok Tubigan, Barangay Veterans Village, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, led to a firefight and hot pursuit, resulting in the arrest of three drug suspects and the seizure of a significant quantity of suspected illegal drugs.
The operation was carried out by the PDEA IX Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Office, Ipil Municipal Police Station, 903rd Mobile Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9, and 2nd PMFC Zamboanga Sibugay. The arrested suspects were identified as Arman Aljas Estrada, 24, a resident of Barangay Cayamcam, Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay; Ronnel Evedientes Jamin, 35, a resident of Barangay Tictapul, Zamboanga City; and Jomari Gonzales Sanson, 24, a resident of Barangay Curuan, Zamboanga City. Two other suspects, Steban S. Maquiling Jr. and Bobby Daniel Jr., managed to evade arrest.
During the operation, authorities confiscated thirteen heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing approximately 650 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated market value of Php 4,420,000. Additionally, a 9mm caliber pistol with live ammunition, a Carbine .30 caliber rifle with magazine and live ammunition, assorted documents, a maroon KIA Sportage Wagon utility vehicle, buy-bust money, cellular phones, a driver’s license, and several other pieces of non-drug evidence were seized.
This operation is part of the intensified efforts to combat illegal drug activities in the region. The suspects are now in custody and face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165) and the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591).
The authorities remain committed to maintaining peace and order in the community and ensuring that those involved in illegal activities are brought to justice.
