Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte – A successful buy-bust operation conducted on December 25, 2024, led to the seizure of suspected shabu valued at approximately Php 3.4 million. The operation unfolded in Brgy. Kabuntalan, Sultan Kudarat, around 4:00 PM.
The Sultan Kudarat Municipal Police Station, under the leadership of PLTCOL Esmael A. Madin, spearheaded the operation in coordination with personnel from the 4th MP, 1st PMFC, MDN, 1404th RMFC, RMFB-14A, PPD…EU, PIU MDN, and RID RDEU PRO BAR. The target, identified as alias “Dhats” and later confirmed to be Lolo Sakilan Ali, was apprehended following a successful transaction with a poseur buyer.
Authorities revealed that the suspect exchanged the Php 3,400,000 worth of counterfeit boodle money for ten (10) heat-sealed plastic sachets of suspected shabu. The items were wrapped in a brown paper bag at the time of the exchange.
Evidence Confiscated
The following items were seized during the operation:
Drug Evidence:
- Ten (10) jumbo-sized heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substances believed to be shabu, weighing approximately 500 grams, with a DDB market value of Php 3,400,000.00.
Non-Drug Evidence:
- One (1) bundle of counterfeit boodle money, containing one (1) genuine Php 1,000 bill (serial number AR5187185).
- Five (5) assorted identification cards.
- One (1) unit of keypad cellular phone.
- One (1) brown leather wallet.
- One (1) brown paper bag.
- One (1) black/blue Suzuki Raider 125 motorcycle (registered under plate number 1201-728110).
The inventory and marking of the confiscated evidence were conducted in the presence of Hon. Brgy. Chairman Badrodin M. Pinguiaman and media representative Mr. Rahib P. Bansao from DXMY-RMN.
Legal Proceedings
Lolo Sakilan Ali is now in police custody and faces charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The operation highlights the government’s intensified efforts to combat illegal drug trade and criminal activities in the region.
Local authorities emphasized their commitment to safeguarding the community and urged residents to report any suspicious activities. “This success underscores our unwavering dedication to eradicating the drug menace in our society,” said PLTCOL Madin.
The seized drugs and apprehension of the suspect mark a significant milestone in the region’s campaign against illegal narcotics, reaffirming the collective resolve of law enforcement agencies in the fight against criminality.