Wao, Lanao del Sur — A coordinated law enforcement operation at dawn on November 18, 2024, resulted in the arrest of eight individuals suspected of involvement in illegal drug activities in Purok 2, Barangay Panang, Wao, Lanao del Sur.
The operation, led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Lanao del Sur Provincial Office in collaboration with PDEA BARMM Regional Special Enforcement Team (RSET), the 55th Infantry Battalion (55th IB) under the 1st Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, and the Wao Municipal Police Station (MPS), targeted a high-priority area in the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs.
Authorities apprehended eight suspects, all residents of Wao, following a successful buy-bust operation. The operation, conducted at approximately 4:30 AM, also yielded a significant haul of illegal drugs and paraphernalia.
Seized items included:
- Fifteen (15) heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, with an estimated weight of 15.3 grams and a street value of Php 104,000.
- Three (3) marijuana plants in pots.
- One (1) open transparent plastic sachet containing dried marijuana.
- Various drug paraphernalia.
- Marked buy-bust money used in the operation.
The suspects, along with the recovered evidence, were taken to the PDEA BARMM office for documentation and further investigation. Authorities are preparing charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, against the arrested individuals.
This successful operation highlights the effective collaboration among law enforcement agencies and the military in combating illegal drugs in the region. PDEA officials reaffirmed their commitment to intensify efforts to dismantle drug networks and ensure safer communities in Lanao del Sur and beyond.
The arrested suspects remain under the custody of PDEA, pending the filing of formal charges in court.
