Marawi City, January 18, 2025—A joint buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA BARMM) and units of the Philippine National Police’s Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) resulted in the seizure of approximately 500 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as Shabu. The confiscated drugs have an estimated street value of ₱3.4 million.
The operation, carried out at Barangay Matampay, was a coordinated effort involving PDEA BARMM Drug Enforcement Officers, the 45th Special Action Company (SAC), and the 4th Special Action Battalion (SAB). Law enforcement agents also recovered critical pieces of evidence, including the buy-bust money, one mobile phone, an identification card, a green Suzuki motorcycle, and a black Bajaj motorcycle.
Authorities arrested two suspects during the operation, identified by their aliases, Alyas Jamael and Alyas Mahid. The suspects are currently detained at the PDEA BARMM Jail Facility, pending an inquest proceeding for violations of Republic Act 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PDEA BARMM lauded the collaboration between its agents and the PNP-SAF, highlighting the importance of inter-agency cooperation in the fight against illegal drugs. The successful operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to curbing drug-related activities in the region.
The seized illegal drugs will undergo further examination, while the suspects face legal proceedings. Authorities have reiterated their call to the public to report any suspicious activities in their communities to help combat the proliferation of illegal drugs in the country.