Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines — In a major breakthrough against illegal drug operations, the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 10 (RPDEU10), in collaboration with RID10, SOU-10 PDEG, and RIU10, apprehended two individuals and seized approximately one kilogram of shabu valued at PhP6,800,000.00 during a meticulously planned buy-bust operation on January 10, 2025, in Kamakawan, Barangay Indahag.
The suspects, identified by their aliases “Bitang,” 32, and “Junior,” 30, are a married couple residing in Barangay Agusan, Cagayan de Oro City. Authorities revealed that “Bitang” assumed leadership of the illicit drug activities after her brother was arrested for a similar crime. Meanwhile, her husband, “Junior,” allegedly used their taxi to facilitate the transactions, masking their illegal operations under the guise of legitimate transportation services. Remarkably, both individuals were found to have no prior criminal records.
During the operation, law enforcement officers confiscated 14 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing a substance suspected to be shabu. The drugs, weighing approximately one kilogram, have an estimated Standard Drug Price of PhP6,800,000.00. Additionally, a digital weighing scale, a taxi used in the operations, and marked buy-bust money amounting to PhP1,500.00 were seized as evidence.
The suspects and the recovered items were brought to Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) Station 2 for proper documentation and disposition. Authorities are preparing to file charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of PRO10, commended the operatives for their dedication and professionalism in executing the operation. “The arrest of these suspects and the seizure of shabu worth millions are a testament to our intensified operations and unwavering resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. Let this serve as a strong warning to those engaging in illegal activities—we will not stop until all drug offenders are brought to justice,” he declared.
PBGEN De Guzman also reiterated the police force’s commitment to eradicating illegal drugs in the region and called on the public to remain vigilant. He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities to authorities, emphasizing that community involvement is crucial in the fight against illegal drugs.
The operation highlights the unyielding determination of law enforcement agencies to dismantle drug networks and uphold the safety of local communities. The arrest of “Bitang” and “Junior” serves as a stark reminder of the consequences awaiting those involved in the illegal drug trade.