Polomolok, South Cotabato—A 24-year-old street-level individual, known by the alias “Joshua,” was apprehended in a buy-bust operation led by the South Cotabato Philippine National Police (PNP) in Barangay Cannery Site, Polomolok, on October 22, 2024. The operation, conducted in Barangay Dimaclid, successfully confiscated a sachet of suspected shabu.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Peter L. Pinalgan Jr., Officer-In-Charge of the Polomolok Municipal Police Station, identified the suspect as a laborer residing on Sampaguita Street, Barangay Poblacion, Polomolok. Authorities seized 0.1 grams of suspected shabu, valued at Php 6,860, along with the Php 1,000 bill used as buy-bust money during the operation.
The suspect now faces charges under sections 5 and 11 of Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. These provisions deal with the sale, trading, and possession of illegal drugs, which carry severe penalties under Philippine law.
Lieutenant Colonel Pinalgan emphasized the PNP’s ongoing commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes in the area, noting that law enforcement will continue its aggressive stance to ensure peace and prosperity in the community.
The successful operation is part of the broader national campaign to combat illegal drugs, with local authorities working around the clock to dismantle the illegal drug trade and bring offenders to justice.
Background on RA 9165
Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, is a cornerstone of the Philippines’ anti-drug campaign. It imposes strict penalties for the possession, sale, and distribution of illegal substances such as methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as “shabu.” The law empowers law enforcement agencies to conduct surveillance, entrapment, and buy-bust operations, among other measures, to arrest drug offenders and disrupt drug syndicates.
As the fight against illegal drugs continues, the PNP remains vigilant in ensuring that South Cotabato remains a safer place for its residents.
