Marantao, Lanao del Sur — June 4, 2025 — In a determined crackdown against illegal drugs, the Marantao Municipal Police Station (MPS) successfully conducted a buy-bust operation in Barangay Tuca Kialdan at around 1:10 AM on Tuesday, resulting in the arrest of an 18-year-old male suspect.
The operation, part of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) continuing anti-drug efforts, led to the confiscation of suspected shabu and various drug paraphernalia. According to police reports, authorities seized the following items from the suspect:
- Three (3) sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 2 grams, valued at ₱13,600 (buy-bust item)
- Nine (9) sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 3 grams, valued at ₱20,400
- One (1) medium sachet of suspected shabu also weighing about 3 grams, valued at ₱20,400
- One (1) improvised tooter
- One (1) scissor
- One (1) green disposable lighter
- One (1) black digital weighing scale
- One (1) blue pouch
The operation took a dramatic turn when two other suspects, who were allegedly part of the drug transaction, realized they were dealing with undercover police. The duo fled the scene, diving into nearby Lake Lanao and escaping capture. They managed to abscond with the marked buy-bust money, leaving behind their accomplice.
The arrested individual, a resident of Barangay Tuca Kialdan, was informed of his constitutional rights in a language he fully understood and was brought to the Marantao MPS for documentation and further investigation. Police conducted an on-site inventory of all seized items in the presence of barangay officials and a representative from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to ensure adherence to legal protocols.
Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office Director PCOL Robert S. Daculan lauded the operating units of Marantao MPS for their swift and professional action. He emphasized the PNP’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and safety in communities through sustained and proactive anti-illegal drug operations.
Authorities continue to pursue the two fleeing suspects and called on the public to report any information that may lead to their arrest.