DAVAO CITY — Two high-value drug targets were arrested in a joint buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Region XI (PDEA-XI) at the Dakudao Compound along J.P. Laurel Avenue, Lanang, around 2:50 p.m. on December 1, 2025.
The suspects, identified only as alias “Ric,” 44, a resident of the area, and alias “Jack,” were intercepted by operatives from the Regional Special Enforcement Team–Davao City and the Seaport Interdiction Unit–Toril, in coordination with the City Mobile Force Company of the Davao City Police Office.
According to PDEA-XI’s report, alias Ric was caught selling a vape loaded with suspected marijuana oil worth ₱4,000 to an undercover PDEA agent, prompting authorities to immediately place him under arrest. His cohort, alias Jack, was also apprehended during the operation.
Seized from the suspects were five vapes containing suspected marijuana oil, nine vacuum-sealed sachets with an estimated 455 grams of suspected marijuana, several transparent sachets containing dried marijuana leaves, and six sachets of suspected shabu weighing about 70 grams. Drug paraphernalia were also recovered.
The total estimated value of the confiscated illegal drugs reached ₱554,600.
Authorities also recovered a carbine rifle, a pistol, and several rounds of ammunition from the suspects, raising concerns about the pair’s possible involvement in armed drug networks.
Both suspects are now under PDEA-XI custody and are facing charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
PDEA-XI said the successful operation was a result of sustained surveillance and coordination among law enforcement units as part of intensified anti-drug efforts in Davao City.