Zamboanga City – September 21, 2024
Plainclothes policemen seized P20.4 million worth of shabu from three suspected drug peddlers during an entrapment operation in Barangay Talisayan, Zamboanga City, on Saturday afternoon. The arrests and drug bust come amid a growing concern over the alarming rise in drug-related cases across the region.
The Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) and Zamboanga City Police Office reported that suspects Mario Pawae Jalilul, 34, Alsid Ahiyal Sahiron, 36, and Ridsman Jikir Majini, 22, were apprehended in a sting operation after they attempted to hand over three kilos of shabu to undercover police in Sitio Ramon. The suspects are now being held in a detention facility, awaiting formal prosecution.
Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding, director of PRO-9, confirmed that the arrests were made following intelligence gathered from confidential informants. The suspects were believed to be involved in large-scale drug trafficking operations, not only in Zamboanga City but also in nearby provinces. The authorities’ swift action prevented the distribution of a substantial amount of illegal drugs.
“This operation is a significant victory in our fight against the rising tide of illegal drugs in the region. However, it also reflects the growing scale of the drug problem that we are facing,” said Brig. Gen. Masauding. He emphasized that increased cooperation from the public and enhanced intelligence efforts were key factors in the success of the operation.
The rise in drug cases has been a critical issue in Zamboanga City and other parts of Mindanao. Law enforcement agencies have noted a steady increase in the volume of drugs being trafficked in the region, with several high-profile seizures and arrests in recent months. This surge has prompted authorities to intensify their anti-drug operations, particularly targeting large-scale trafficking syndicates.
The P20.4 million worth of shabu confiscated from the suspects is now in police custody and will be used as evidence in the filing of criminal charges. Authorities continue to investigate the suspects’ network to dismantle the wider syndicate involved in drug trafficking across Mindanao.
While the successful operation is a major step in curbing illegal drug activities, officials warn that the rising drug cases highlight the need for sustained and coordinated efforts from law enforcement, local communities, and government agencies to combat the growing drug menace in the region.
