Davao City – October 10, 2025 — The Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) continues to tighten its anti-drug campaign after arresting two of the region’s high-value individuals (HVIs) and confiscating over PHP 1.5 million worth of suspected shabu in separate operations conducted in Davao Oriental and Davao de Oro.
Under the leadership of Regional Director PBGEN Joseph R. Arguelles, operatives from the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 11 (RPDEU 11) carried out simultaneous operations that led to the successful apprehension of top drug personalities.
In Mati City, Davao Oriental, authorities conducted a buy-bust operation at Purok Sto. Niño, Barangay Matiao, resulting in the arrest of alias “Boyong”, listed as the Top 6 HVI at the regional level, and a newly identified street-level drug peddler. The operation yielded 19 heat-sealed plastic sachets containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, with a Standard Drug Price (SDP) of PHP 714,000, along with other drug paraphernalia and non-drug items.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation at Sitio Tunga, Barangay Magnaga, Pantukan, Davao de Oro, police apprehended alias “Boss”, identified as the Top 8 HVI, and his cohort alias “Joy.” Seized from their possession were sachets of suspected shabu valued at PHP 816,000, a .45 caliber pistol (1911 NorenCo) loaded with live ammunition, a black steel magazine, and other pieces of evidence.
The arrested individuals are facing charges for violations of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PBGEN Arguelles lauded the operating units for their vigilance, professionalism, and dedication in pursuing high-value drug targets. He said these accomplishments reflect PRO 11’s unwavering commitment to the strategic framework of Acting PNP Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., which reinforces intensified anti-drug operations across the country.
In a stern message, PBGEN Arguelles warned drug personalities in the region to stop their illegal activities and surrender while there is still time. He reaffirmed that PRO 11, in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies, will continue to pursue those involved in the illegal drug trade and protect communities from the harm caused by dangerous drugs.
“We will not rest until our communities are free from the grip of illegal drugs. Those who persist in this illicit trade will face the full force of the law,” PBGEN Arguelles stressed.