Lamitan City, Basilan – A drug den operator and two others were arrested during a buy-bust operation on November 29, 2024, at Calle Onse, Barangay Maligaya, Lamitan City. The operation, conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office BARMM Basilan Provincial Office, in coordination with Lamitan City Police Station, 18th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army, 15th Provincial Mobile Force Company, and 1403rd Regional Mobile Force Company, also resulted in the dismantling of a drug den.
The arrested suspects were identified as:
- Randy Largo Sagadsad, also known as “Randy,” the alleged operator of the drug den;
- Ryan Paredes Lequin, also known as “Kingking”; and
- Robert Revieo Abiy, also known as “Obet.”
Authorities confiscated eight heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing approximately 5 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as “shabu,” with an estimated street value of ₱34,000. Other items seized included buy-bust marked money, various drug paraphernalia, a mobile phone, and identification cards.
The suspects are now in custody and face charges for violating Republic Act 9165 (The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
The successful operation highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and the military in combatting illegal drug activities in Basilan. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to ensuring a drug-free community in the region.