DAVAO CITY — A high-value drug suspect was arrested in a major anti-narcotics operation that led to the seizure of illegal drugs worth over ₱7.14 million in Barangay Ma-a on Thursday, March 19, authorities said.
The operation was carried out by the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) under the leadership of Acting City Director Police Colonel Mannan C. Muarip, in coordination with Police Station 16 Ma-a and the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU).
Identified only by his alias “Alex,” the suspect was tagged by authorities as a high-value individual (HVI) and a repeat offender. He was apprehended during a joint buy-bust operation conducted at Purok 28, Barangay Ma-a, Poblacion District.
Police Major Philip Dave A. Uddin, station commander of Police Station 16 Ma-a, and personnel of the CDEU led by Police Lieutenant Joel D. Lucero Jr., carried out the operation under the direct supervision of Lieutenant Colonel Randy P. Sambalod, chief of the CDEU.
Authorities said the suspect was caught in possession of suspected shabu with an estimated Standard Drug Price (SDP) value of ₱7,140,000. The seized illegal drugs are believed to be part of a larger distribution network operating in the city.
Charges for violation of Sections 5 (sale of illegal drugs) and 11 (possession of illegal drugs) under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared against the suspect.
Police officials said the successful operation highlights the DCPO’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs, particularly targeting high-value individuals and repeat offenders involved in drug trafficking.
“The Davao City Police Office remains steadfast in its commitment to rid communities of illegal drugs through sustained intelligence-driven operations and strong coordination with various units,” the DCPO said in a statement.
Authorities also emphasized the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities, noting that public support plays a crucial role in the ongoing fight against illegal drugs.
The DCPO assured residents that operations against drug syndicates will continue as part of efforts to maintain peace, order, and public safety in Davao City.