MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Police operatives arrested an 18-year-old male tagged as a newly identified High Value Individual (HVI) during a buy-bust operation that led to the seizure of more than 70 grams of shabu worth nearly ₱477,000 in Barangay Casisang on Wednesday.
Personnel of the Malaybalay City Police Station, led by PLTCOL Joepet B. Paglinawan, Chief of Police, in coordination with the Bukidnon Police Intelligence Unit (BUK PIU), carried out the anti-illegal drugs operation at Purok 5, Barangay Casisang, resulting in the suspect’s arrest.
Authorities confiscated 70.148 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated standard drug price of ₱477,006.40, dealing a significant blow to the local illegal drug trade.
Criminal charges for violation of Article II, Sections 5 (Sale of Dangerous Drugs) and 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared for filing before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Malaybalay City.
Police officials lauded the successful operation, citing effective coordination and swift action by the operating units.
“I commend the operating units of the Malaybalay City Police Station. Your teamwork and swift action once again demonstrate the PNP’s persistent pursuit of a safer and more drug-free Bukidnon. Continue the excellent work,” said PCOL Navales.
The suspect and seized evidence were brought to the Malaybalay City Police Station for proper documentation and disposition, while the confiscated drug items were turned over to the Provincial Forensic Unit for qualitative and quantitative examination.
The Bukidnon police reiterated their commitment to intensify anti-illegal drug operations and urged the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.