Polomolok, South Cotabato – A successful anti-drug operation conducted by personnel of the Police Regional Office 12 (PRO 12) under the supervision of Acting Regional Director PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente led to the arrest of four high-value individuals (HVI) and the seizure of illegal drugs worth Php176,000.00 in Purok Honey Vill, Barangay Silway 8 on February 4, 2025.
The entrapment operation was carried out in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 12. The suspects, identified only by their aliases as “Jonathan,” “Nante,” “Pagi,” and “Ryan,” were apprehended by operatives of the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) 12 led by PMAJ Dave Abarra, alongside units from RIU 12, PDEG 12, 1205th MC RMFB 12, RID 12, and the Polomolok Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Authorities confiscated a total of 26 grams of suspected shabu, valued at Php176,000.00 based on the National Standard Drug Price. Among the seized items were three large-sized rectangular heat-sealed plastic sachets containing approximately 15 grams of the illegal substance, valued at Php102,000.00.
In addition to the drug haul, authorities also recovered several firearms and explosives, including:
- One Armscor shotgun with five live rounds of ammunition
- Two caliber .22 revolvers loaded with four live rounds each
- One caliber .45 firearm with a magazine containing seven live rounds
- One live hand grenade
The confiscated drug evidence, firearms, and ammunition were turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit, South Cotabato, for forensic and ballistic examination. Meanwhile, the recovered hand grenade was properly handed over to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit for identification and safekeeping.
All arrested suspects are currently under the temporary custody of the Polomolok MPS for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
“As part of elevating the quality of police service, PRO 12 works towards operational readiness in addressing security and public safety demands, especially as the 2025 election draws nearer,” PBGEN Ardiente stated.
The successful operation highlights the ongoing intensified efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb illegal drug activities and maintain peace and order in the region.