Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi – October 29, 2024
In a concerted anti-drug operation, the Tactical Operations Wing Western Mindanao (TOW WestMin), under the leadership of Brigadier General Rocky J. Binag of the Philippine Air Force, successfully apprehended three individuals suspected of drug-related activities in Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi on October 29. The coordinated efforts led by the Tactical Operations Group Sulu – Tawi-Tawi (TOG SulTaw), in collaboration with multiple intelligence and law enforcement agencies, culminated in the detention of these suspects.
Courtesy of Tactical Operation Group – Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
The arrest operation was carried out by a joint team comprising members from TOG SulTaw, including personnel from its Headquarters, 5135 Air Base Squadron, and TOS Sibutu Intelligence Team. Additional support came from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Tawi-Tawi, Tawi-Tawi Provincial Intelligence Team (PIT), Regional Intelligence Unit 9 (RIU9), Tawi-Tawi Provincial Police Office (TTPO), Sibutu Municipal Police Station, the 17th Army Intelligence Battalion, and the Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA).
The suspects were arrested on the basis of an active warrant for violating Section 11, Article II of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (R.A. 9165), registered under Criminal Case Number 3597-5. The arrest warrant was issued on September 17, 2024, by Hon. Abdulmoin M. Pakam, Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court, Ninth Judicial Region, Branch 5 in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, with a recommended bail bond set at Php 200,000 each.
Authorities ensured that the suspects were informed of the charges against them and were apprised of their constitutional rights in a language they fully understood. They were subsequently transferred to the CIDG Tawi-Tawi Provincial Field Unit Office in Bongao for processing and documentation, pending further legal proceedings.
This operation underscores the Philippine government’s ongoing commitment to combating illegal drug activity, recognizing its detrimental effects on both individuals and communities. The collaboration between TOW WestMin, CIDG, and local intelligence units reflects the sustained dedication to eradicating the drug trade and safeguarding the well-being of the community.
