JOLO, Sulu — A notorious drug pusher was killed during a buy-bust operation conducted by the Jolo Municipal Police Station on Sunday night, November 3, 2025.
Police identified the suspect as Jimboy Ajan Hambali, also known as “Jimboy”, 32 years old, married, unemployed, and a resident of Barangay San Raymundo, Jolo, Sulu.
The operation, led by PLTC Annidul Sali with the support of the 905th Mobile Company and Regional Mobile Force Company IX, took place around 9:30 p.m. in Sitio Martirez, Barangay San Raymundo. Authorities said Hambali resisted arrest, prompting an exchange of gunfire that led to his death.
Recovered from the suspect were a Caliber .45 pistol, an assembly magazine with six live rounds, 12 heat-sealed sachets containing suspected shabu weighing about 15 grams and valued at approximately ₱102,000, as well as drug paraphernalia and other pieces of evidence.
Police said Hambali had long been on their radar as a well-known drug personality operating in Jolo and nearby areas.
Authorities are preparing criminal charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act 10591 or the Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition, even as the investigation continues to trace his possible links to a larger drug network in the province.
The Jolo Municipal Police Station reaffirmed its commitment to intensify anti-drug operations to curb illegal drug activities and maintain peace and order in Sulu.