Rizal, Zamboanga del Norte – October 25, 2024
In a significant operation against illegal drug activity, local authorities arrested a barangay councilor on October 24, 2024, in Barangay South Mapang, Rizal, Zamboanga del Norte. Rey Baluma Cadungog, a 53-year-old married man and high school graduate, was apprehended by agents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) after allegedly selling suspected shabu to an undercover officer.
The operation, which took place around 8:00 PM, led to the seizure of one heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing approximately 0.100 grams of suspected shabu. Additionally, authorities confiscated over two grams of the substance, estimated to have a market value of PHP 13,600. Other items seized during the buy-bust operation included a small transparent plastic container holding five sachets of suspected shabu, a coin purse, tissue, a fifty-peso bill believed to be the proceeds of the sale, an android phone, and the buy-bust money.
The operation was conducted collaboratively by the PDEA Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Office, Rizal Municipal Police Station, Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the 901st Mobile Command and Response Force Battalion 9.
Cadungog now faces serious charges for violating Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This incident has raised concerns about the involvement of local officials in drug-related activities, prompting calls for stricter measures and accountability in the community.
Authorities continue to encourage residents to report any suspicious activities as part of their ongoing efforts to combat illegal drugs in the region.
