Lanao del Norte police forces have successfully conducted two decisive anti-drug operations, resulting in the apprehension of high-value targets and the seizure of illegal drugs and paraphernalia. These efforts underscore the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat the proliferation of illegal substances in the community.
Operation in Kapatagan Nets Provincial-Level High-Value Target
On November 29, 2024, a composite team comprising the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO), Kapatagan Municipal Police Station (MPS), and Regional Intelligence Division 10 executed a search warrant at Purok 2, Barangay Margos, Kapatagan. The warrant, issued by Judge Alberto P. Quinto of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 21, 12th Judicial Region, led to the arrest of a 34-year-old male suspect known as “Kabang,” identified as the Top 4 High-Value Individual (HVI) at the provincial level.
Recovered from the suspect’s residence were four elongated and one medium-sized sachet containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, weighing approximately 4 grams with a Standard Drug Price (SDP) value of Php 27,200. Other confiscated items included a multicolored coin purse and a disposable lighter.
The suspect is currently in the custody of Kapatagan MPS, and cases for violations of Sections 11 and 12, Article II of RA 9165 are being prepared for filing. The seized items are undergoing quantitative and qualitative examination.
Buy-Bust Operation in Balo-i Yields Another Arrest
On December 6, 2024, at approximately 6:30 PM, personnel from the Balo-i MPS and PDEU conducted a buy-bust operation in Barangay Abaga, Balo-i. The operation resulted in the arrest of a 35-year-old unemployed male resident after a poseur buyer successfully purchased a sachet containing approximately 0.5 grams of shabu with an estimated value of Php 3,400.
Authorities also confiscated additional items, including a Samsung keypad cellphone, assorted coins amounting to Php 38, cash totaling Php 750, a pack of cigarettes, and a disposable lighter.
The suspect was immediately detained at the Balo-i MPS, and a case for violation of Section 5, Article II of RA 9165 is being prepared for inquest filing. The seized substances were sent to the Crime Laboratory Unit in Iligan City for further examination.
Leadership Commends Police Efforts
PCOL Roy A. Magsalay, Provincial Director of LDN PPO, commended the personnel involved in both operations for their exemplary performance. “These successful operations underscore the ongoing efforts of the LDN PPO and its partner agencies in ensuring the safety and security of the community,” he stated.
Magsalay also emphasized the importance of community support in the fight against illegal drugs. “We assure the public that we will continue to intensify our efforts to eradicate illegal drug activities and bring offenders to justice,” he added.
These back-to-back successes highlight the relentless commitment of law enforcement agencies in Lanao del Norte to combat illegal drugs and protect their communities from the dangers posed by these substances.