Salvador, Lanao del Norte — In a decisive crackdown against illegal drug activities, a composite law enforcement team conducted a successful joint anti-drug operation in Purok 2, Barangay Poblacion, Salvador, Lanao del Norte, on November 19, 2024.
The operation, spearheaded by Salvador Municipal Police Station (MPS) personnel alongside the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), Lanao del Norte Provincial Police Office (LDN PPO), Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), was executed under Search Warrant No. 21-869. The warrant, authorized by Hon. Alberto P. Quinto, Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 21, Kapatagan, was issued on November 15, 2024, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
The team apprehended a 40-year-old male suspect, identified as a resident of the target address. The suspect, reportedly single and jobless, was arrested following the recovery of drug-related evidence during the operation.
Seized from the suspect’s residence were:
- Two heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, with an estimated weight of 0.5 grams and a street value of Php 3,400.
- One small transparent plastic cellophane.
- One folded aluminum foil.
The recovered items are now undergoing laboratory analysis to confirm their contents. Authorities have prepared charges against the suspect for violations of Sections 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) and 12 (Possession of Drug Paraphernalia), Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The suspect remains in police custody for documentation and further legal proceedings.
PCOL Roy A. Magsalay, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Norte PPO, praised the collaborative efforts of the operating units. “This operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat the illegal drug trade and uphold the rule of law. The collaboration among different units demonstrates the effectiveness of joint efforts in addressing the challenges posed by illegal drugs in our communities,” he said.
Authorities reaffirmed their dedication to eradicating illegal drugs and ensuring safer neighborhoods across Lanao del Norte.
