Surigao del Norte, Philippines – A series of successful buy-bust operations in the first two weeks of October 2024 resulted in the arrest of three individuals involved in illegal drug activities in Surigao del Norte. The operations, carried out by the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) and allied agencies, led to the seizure of illegal drugs valued at approximately ₱41,140.
The Surigao City Police Station’s Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) and General Luna Municipal Police Station, in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Tactical Operation Group 10, Naval Intelligence and Security Unit-74, SDN Maritime Police Station, Eastern Mindanao Element, and NICA 13 Technical Support, worked together in a coordinated effort to disrupt the drug trade in the province.
The arrested suspects include a 34-year-old male vendor from Barangay Luna, a 46-year-old unemployed male from Barangay Orok, both in Surigao City, and a 24-year-old male construction worker from Barangay Union in Dapa. PCOL Nilo T. Texon, Officer-in-Charge of the SDNPPO, identified the suspects, with two of them considered street-level drug dealers and one classified as a high-value individual.
The first two arrests occurred on October 9, 2024, following separate buy-bust operations at Parrucho Street, Barangay Washington, and Purok 1, Barangay Orok, Surigao City. A third arrest was made on October 16, 2024, in Purok 3, Barangay Malinao, General Luna. All suspects are charged with violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165).
Authorities confiscated twenty-four heat-sealed sachets of suspected shabu, weighing 6.05 grams in total, along with marked money, a white cigarette pack, a blue sling bag, and an assortment of drug paraphernalia. Additionally, the operatives seized a black/red Honda Beat motorcycle, an Infinix Android phone, and other related items.
“These operations are part of our continuous efforts to combat illegal drugs in the province. The arrests are aimed at disrupting the local drug trade and ensuring community safety,” stated PCOL Texon, OIC of the Surigao del Norte Police.
The arrested suspects and confiscated evidence are now in the custody of Surigao City Police Station and General Luna Municipal Police Station for further legal action. Authorities remain committed to intensifying their campaign against illegal drugs to safeguard the people of Surigao del Norte.
