Camp Gallego, Tubod, Lanao del Norte – A routine checkpoint operation led to the arrest of two individuals for possession of illegal drugs in Brgy. Maliwanag, Pantao Ragat, Lanao del Norte, on February 6, 2025. The operation was conducted by personnel from the Pantao Ragat Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Authorities flagged down a gray and black Honda XRM 125 motorcycle for inspection. However, the driver hesitated, failed to present a valid driver’s license and vehicle documents, and attempted to evade the checkpoint. This prompted police to intervene, resulting in the arrest of two male suspects, both 39 years old, married, and residents of Brgy. Pacalundo, Baloi, Lanao del Norte.
A subsequent body search of the passenger led to the discovery of suspected illegal drugs and related paraphernalia, including:
- One rectangular transparent plastic sachet;
- Two small heat-sealed plastic sachets containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, with a total estimated weight of 0.4 grams and a street value of Php 2,720;
- Four Php 100 bills and three Php 50 bills;
- Two orange disposable lighters; and
- One pack of Modern brand cigarettes.
Charges are being prepared against the suspects for violating Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code (Resistance and Disobedience to a Person in Authority) and Sections 11 and 15 of Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The arrested individuals and their confiscated motorcycle remain in the custody of Pantao Ragat MPS for documentation and further investigation, while the seized illegal drugs have been sent to CFU, Iligan City, for quantitative and qualitative examination.
Lanao del Norte Provincial Director PCOL Roy A. Magsalay lauded the swift response of the arresting officers. “The Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office remains steadfast in its mission to maintain peace and order. We will continue to intensify our efforts against illegal activities,” he stated.
