SOUTH COTABATO – Police Regional Office 12 (PRO-12) reported two successful anti-illegal drug operations in the province that resulted in the arrest of three suspects, including a high-value individual, and the confiscation of suspected shabu worth more than ₱169,000.
In Tampakan, combined operatives of the Tampakan Municipal Police Station, Provincial Intelligence Unit, and the 1st South Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company launched a buy-bust operation on August 21, 2025, in Barangay Maltana. The operation led to the arrest of alias “Arnel”, 50, a laborer and resident of the barangay.
Confiscated from him were four sachets of suspected shabu weighing 3.69 grams with a standard drug value of ₱93,092, along with the marked ₱500 buy-bust money. The suspect is facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, in Surallah, a separate police operation carried out by the Surallah Municipal Police Station through a search warrant on the same day in Barangay Libertad resulted in the arrest of two suspects identified as alias “Alver”, 37, and alias “Lowell”, 38.
Authorities seized two sachets of suspected shabu weighing 11.20 grams valued at ₱76,160, along with assorted drug paraphernalia. The suspects are also facing charges under R.A. 9165.
Police Regional Director PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz lauded the operating units for their consistent efforts in combating illegal drugs in South Cotabato, stressing PRO-12’s commitment to sustain anti-drug operations across SOCCSKSARGEN.
“These accomplishments are clear proof of our firm resolve to cleanse our communities from the menace of illegal drugs. We urge the public to remain vigilant and to work hand in hand with the police by reporting suspicious activities. Together, we can build a safer SOCCSKSARGEN,” Macapaz said.
Both operations highlight PRO-12’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs, aligning with the Chief PNP’s call for swift and responsive public service.