Mati City, Davao Oriental — A joint anti-drug operation led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and local law enforcement agencies successfully dismantled a drug den in Barangay Central, Mati City, in the early hours of March 7, 2025.
At approximately 3:25 AM, operatives from the Davao Oriental Provincial Office of PDEA Regional Office 11, Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office, 2nd Davao Oriental Provincial Mobile Force Company, Regional Intelligence Unit, and Mati City Police Station conducted a buy-bust operation at Purok Bayanihan, Gomez Street. The operation targeted a 53-year-old suspect, identified as @ Dodong, who was allegedly maintaining the illegal drug den.
Authorities apprehended @ Dodong after he was caught selling suspected shabu worth Php 1,000. Alongside him, six other individuals were arrested, including his employee, @ Joey, and five visitors to the drug den, identified as @ Emma, @ Arnold, @ Carlo, government employee @ Rogelio, and @ Boloy. During the operation, @ Boloy reportedly resisted arrest and brandished a .45 caliber pistol, prompting law enforcement to respond with necessary force. He sustained a gunshot wound to the left arm and was immediately transported to Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital, where he is now in stable condition.
Confiscated during the operation were three sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 13 grams, with an estimated street value of Php 156,000. Authorities also seized a white cellophane containing suspected dried marijuana leaves, assorted drug paraphernalia, buy-bust marked money, and a .45 caliber pistol with live ammunition.
The arrested individuals are now facing multiple charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Additionally, @ Boloy will be charged under Republic Act 10591 for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensifying anti-drug efforts in the region, warning that law enforcement operations will continue to target illegal drug activities to ensure the safety and security of local communities.
