KORONADAL CITY – What began as a standard traffic checkpoint turned into a major anti-drug operation after four individuals were arrested for transporting suspected shabu worth approximately Php 680,000.00 on Wednesday afternoon.
The incident occurred at around 3:00 PM on April 3, 2025, at Purok Ligaya, Barangay Carpenter Hill, during a joint checkpoint operation conducted by personnel from the Koronadal City Police Station, South Cotabato Police Provincial Office, and the South Cotabato Highway Patrol Group. The checkpoint was being carried out in line with the enforcement of Republic Act 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
According to reports, a white Nissan Almera was flagged down for routine inspection. However, instead of stopping, the driver swerved to another lane and sped away, raising suspicions. Responding quickly, law enforcers relayed information to a nearby patrol unit, which successfully intercepted the fleeing vehicle a short distance away.
Upon stopping the vehicle, authorities identified the occupants as Alias “Gar,” 44, and Alias “Juls,” 42, both residents of General Santos City; as well as Alias “Mary,” 42, and Alias “Nels,” 40, both from Koronadal City.
A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of two large sacks in plain view inside the console box. These sacks were found to contain several heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets suspected to contain shabu, weighing a total of approximately 100 grams.
All four individuals were immediately arrested, and the recovered evidence was brought to the Koronadal City Police Station for proper documentation and further investigation.
Police Brigadier General Arnold P. Ardiente, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 12, lauded the swift and coordinated response of the operatives involved.
“This operation sends a strong and clear message to those involved in illegal drug activities: your days are numbered,” said PBGEN Ardiente. “We remain steadfast in our mission to rid our communities of illegal drugs and to build a safer, drug-free region for all.”
The suspects are now facing charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.