Dipolog City, Philippines – In a decisive blow against illegal drug operations, authorities confiscated approximately three kilograms of suspected shabu valued at Php 20,400,000 during a buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region IX and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Drug Enforcement Unit 9 (RDEU9) on January 25, 2025.
The anti-drug operation, led by PDEA Region IX’s Regional Special Enforcement Team, was executed in collaboration with the PDEA Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Office, PNP RDEU9, and the Dipolog City Police Station. The coordinated effort took place around 12:20 PM at Rizal corner Osmeña Street in Barangay Central, Dipolog City.
During the operation, authorities seized a vacuum-sealed transparent plastic pack containing one kilogram of suspected shabu, along with two additional kilograms stored in opened transparent plastic packs. The confiscated drugs were packaged in green tea foil packets labeled “999,” a packaging commonly associated with large-scale drug distribution. Additional items recovered included a blue ecobag, three opened green tea foil packs, a black Toyota Vios with its key, a blue Realme Android cellphone, and the buy-bust money used during the operation.
The operation also led to the arrest of a suspect identified as alias Darwin, a 47-year-old driver and resident of Barangay Sta. Catalina, Zamboanga City. Alias Darwin, considered a high-value target (HVT), is now in custody and will face charges for violating Section 5 of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The successful operation underscores the continued commitment of PDEA Region IX and PNP RDEU9 to dismantle drug networks and apprehend high-value individuals involved in the illegal drug trade. Authorities have reiterated their dedication to eradicating the drug menace in the region, emphasizing that collaborative efforts remain crucial in achieving this goal.