COTABATO CITY—A drug den in Buluan, Maguindanao, was dismantled during a buy-bust operation conducted by combined operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the 21st Mechanized Infantry Company, the 2nd Mechanized Battalion, the Maguindanao Maritime Police Station, and the Buluan Municipal Police Station on February 20, 2025.
Authorities arrested two drug suspects, identified only as Alyas Memo and Alyas King, while the drug den operator, known as Alyas Dats, was fatally wounded in a shootout with law enforcement. Another suspect, Alyas Rolan, managed to evade capture after engaging in a firefight with authorities.
According to reports, as the apprehending team approached Purok 3, Barangay Upper Siling, where the operation was conducted, Alyas Rolan noticed their presence and immediately opened fire while attempting to retreat. This prompted operatives to return fire. Upon hearing the gunshots, Alyas Dats also drew his firearm, leading to a firefight that lasted approximately 15 minutes. Alyas Dats was wounded in the exchange and was taken to the nearest hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Authorities launched a hot pursuit operation, but Alyas Rolan managed to escape.
Recovered from the crime scene were 25 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing shabu, weighing approximately 15 grams with an estimated street value of P102,000. Also seized were drug paraphernalia, a black Baja motorcycle, a 9mm submachine gun, and seven live rounds of ammunition.
A case for violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, is set to be filed against the arrested suspects, as well as against Alyas Rolan, who remains at large.