Cotabato City — A buy-bust operation launched by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Wednesday, December 3, resulted in the dismantling of an active drug den and the arrest of four suspects along Malagapas, RH-10, Cotabato City.
The operation, initiated by the PDEA Maguindanao del Norte Provincial Office, was carried out with the support of multiple law enforcement units, including the Regional Drug Enforcement Unit PRO BAR, Regional Intelligence Unit-15, Cotabato City Police Office-CMFC, Marine Battalion Landing Team-6, and the PNP Drug Enforcement Group SOU BAR.
Authorities seized nineteen (19) heat-sealed sachets containing suspected shabu, weighing a total of 22 grams and valued at P149,600. Also recovered were assorted drug paraphernalia, two mobile phones, an identification card, and the marked buy-bust money used in the sting.
Arrested during the operation were the alleged drug den maintainer, alias “Bads,” 45; and three companions identified as alias “Joseph,” 22; alias “Junjun,” 27; and alias “Budoy,” 31. All suspects are residents of Cotabato City and nearby areas.
The four are currently detained at the PDEA BARMM Jail Facility while awaiting inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Authorities said the successful operation underscores the continued intensified anti-drug campaign in the Bangsamoro region, especially against drug dens that serve as local hubs for illegal trade and use.