Agusan del Norte – Authorities in Agusan del Norte intensified their anti-illegal drug campaign with a series of successful operations leading to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of illegal drugs, locally known as “shabu,” in separate incidents on January 30 and 31, 2025.
In Jabonga, personnel from the Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) of the Jabonga Municipal Police Station (MPS) executed a search warrant in Purok 6, Barangay Magdagooc, resulting in the arrest of an individual identified as alias “Manuel,” a 36-year-old fish vendor categorized as a Street-Level Individual (SLI). Confiscated during the operation were illegal drugs, which are now under police custody as evidence.
Simultaneously, a similar operation was carried out by the Kitcharao Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Barangay Sangay, Kitcharao. Authorities arrested alias “Sherwin,” a 41-year-old tricycle driver classified as a High-Value Individual (HVI). The operation, backed by a search warrant, resulted in the confiscation of suspected shabu at the suspect’s residence.
Another significant operation took place in Santiago, where the Santiago Municipal Police Station (MPS) arrested alias “Dodong,” a 52-year-old resident of Purok 9, Barangay Poblacion 1. He was also categorized as an SLI. The operation, conducted through a search warrant, led to the seizure of illegal drugs from his possession.
According to PCOL April Mark C. Young, Provincial Director of the Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (ADNPPO), the arrested individuals were informed of their constitutional rights in a language they understood. They are currently in the custody of their respective police stations and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2022.
During the operations, representatives from the Department of Justice, media, and barangay officials were present as witnesses, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal procedures.
“The operations conducted by the respective police stations were part of our anti-illegal drugs strategy, which targets the sources and supply chains of illegal substances while tackling the drug menace. This is in line with the directives of the Chief PNP. Rest assured that ADNPPO will strengthen its campaign against illegal drugs by putting behind bars those who are caught engaging in the illicit trade within the province of Agusan del Norte,” PCOL Young stated.
Authorities reaffirm their commitment to curbing illegal drugs in the province and encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking.
