Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur — Authorities apprehended a former barangay chairman and four others in an anti-drug operation on January 16, 2025. The arrest took place around 5:00 PM at the residence of the former chairman, which had reportedly been converted into a drug den.
Rajah Buayan Police Chief Capt. Joel Lebrilla identified the suspects as Ansarie Usman Maulana, the former barangay captain of Pidsandawan; cousins Abusama Kusa Enggo and Ali Enggo; Datu Ali Andang; and Hassan Tatak. The suspects are residents of Mamasapano and nearby barangays.
The operation unfolded after the group allegedly sold shabu (methamphetamine) to an undercover police operative. Following the transaction, authorities raided the premises and discovered the drug den.
In addition to illegal drugs, law enforcement officers confiscated drug paraphernalia during the raid. Capt. Lebrilla revealed that the suspects were also linked to other illegal activities in the area.
The arrested individuals are now detained at the Rajah Buayan police station and face charges related to illegal drug trafficking. Further investigations are ongoing.