Esperanza and Lebak, Sultan Kudarat — Two individuals were arrested in separate anti-illegal drug operations conducted by local police forces in the municipalities of Esperanza and Lebak on June 10 and 11, 2025.
In Esperanza, authorities apprehended a 43-year-old farmer known by the alias “Ronel” during a buy-bust operation carried out by the Municipal Drug Enforcement Unit (MDEU) of Esperanza Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with the 2nd Sultan Kudarat Provincial Mobile Force Company (SKPMFC). The operation took place in Purok New Passi, Barangay Dukay.
Confiscated from the suspect were one small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet and three more sachets (two small and one medium-sized), all containing suspected shabu. The seized drugs had an estimated total weight of two grams and a street value of approximately ₱13,600. A complaint is being prepared against “Ronel” for violating Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, in Barangay Aurelio F. Frieres Sr., Lebak, police arrested another drug suspect identified as alias “Tawing,” a 28-year-old electrician and resident of the same barangay. The suspect was caught in possession of six sachets of suspected shabu, a coin purse, and a marked ₱1,000 bill used in the buy-bust operation.
Both suspects face charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of RA 9165.
Police authorities in Sultan Kudarat reiterated their commitment to intensify operations against illegal drugs and other forms of criminality. According to PCPT Jeffrey T. Lazaro, Officer-in-Charge of Esperanza MPS, their efforts are aligned with the Philippine National Police’s agenda to uphold peace and order. He also urged the public to respect the law and refrain from engaging in illegal activities.