Cotabato City, September 27, 2024 — Five women were arrested during a drug buy-bust operation led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) on Mabini Street, Bagua 3, Cotabato City, earlier today.
The suspects were identified as Salama Karim Dimalen, Jasmin Dimalen, Mali Omar Ukas, Iran Ukas, and Baican Ukas Omar. Three of the women are known residents of Bagua 3, while the identities of the other two are still being verified.
Authorities targeted Salama Karim Dimalen in the operation, with the other four allegedly acting as her accomplices in the drug transaction. The operation resulted in the seizure of two packets of suspected shabu, weighing 100 grams and valued at approximately Php 680,000, along with two motorcycles, buy-bust money, and other pieces of evidence.
PDEA Agent Mon described the suspects as “high-value individuals” due to the substantial quantity of shabu recovered.
When interviewed by the media, Salama denied her involvement in the illegal drug trade, claiming that she was only there to pick up Jasmin. However, she provided no further defense.
The five women are now facing charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and are being held at the PDEA detention facility.
