DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte — A 26-year-old motorcycle rider was arrested on Friday, December 5, after police intercepted him in Barangay Poblacion Dalican while allegedly transporting 55 grams of shabu worth ₱374,000. The illegal drugs were reportedly intended for delivery to a contact within the town.
The suspect, identified as Halil Dimaukom Minalang, was flagged down and immediately apprehended by operatives of the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station (DOSMPS) led by Lt. Col. Esmael Madin. Authorities said Minalang came from Barangay Bonqued and was on his way to deliver the contraband when intercepted in the town center.
Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) Director Brig. Gen. Jaysen De Guzman confirmed on Saturday that the arrest was the result of a coordinated narcotics interdiction operation. The operation was initiated based on reports from barangay and municipal officials regarding the planned drug delivery.
De Guzman also acknowledged the crucial support of Mayor Abdulmain Abas and Vice Mayor Bobsteel Sinsuat, who were both alerted by informants about the suspect’s movements. Investigators are now working to identify the intended recipient of the seized shabu.
Authorities said the arrest strengthens ongoing efforts to crack down on drug couriers operating in the municipality. Since June 2025, police have intercepted five motorcycle-riding drug couriers in separate operations across various barangays, all under the intensified anti-drug campaign backed by Mayor Abas and Vice Mayor Sinsuat.
De Guzman emphasized that strong local government support has significantly boosted PRO-BAR’s campaign against the distribution of shabu and marijuana in Maguindanao del Norte — particularly after the newly elected officials assumed office following the May 2025 elections.
Vice Mayor Sinsuat, who personally witnessed the presentation of the seized drugs on Friday afternoon, praised DOSMPS for its relentless operations. He reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to eliminating illegal drugs that “ruin the image and safety of the municipality.”
Sinsuat also reported that crime incidents in Datu Odin Sinsuat have declined, attributing the improved peace and order situation to enhanced collaboration among the PNP, the military, barangay officials, and vigilant residents.
The suspect remains detained as charges are being prepared against him. Authorities vowed that operations will continue to ensure that communities remain protected from the threat of illegal drugs.