MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — A 23-year-old drug suspect and a 15-year-old minor were arrested in a late-night anti-drug operation after attempting to evade authorities, underscoring growing concern over the involvement of young individuals in illegal drug activities.
Operatives from the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) of Malaybalay City Police launched a buy-bust operation at around 10:38 p.m. on March 27, 2026, in Purok 3, Barangay Dalwangan. The operation successfully led to the arrest of the target, identified only by his alias “Nelson,” along with a minor accomplice, both residents of the area.
Authorities reported that the suspect initially attempted to flee upon sensing the presence of law enforcement, but the attempt proved unsuccessful, resulting in his immediate arrest together with the 15-year-old boy. The minor’s involvement in the illegal drug operation has alarmed authorities, raising serious concerns about the exploitation and exposure of youth to criminal activities.
During the operation, an undercover officer was able to purchase a sachet of suspected shabu worth ₱500 from the suspect, serving as the buy-bust item. A subsequent body search yielded seven additional sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 10 grams, with an estimated street value of ₱68,000.
Police also recovered one sachet of suspected dried marijuana leaves weighing around 5 grams, valued at ₱600, the marked buy-bust money, and a loaded .45 caliber firearm with three rounds of ammunition.
All confiscated evidence has been turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit for laboratory and ballistic examination.
The arrested suspect is set to face charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165 and Republic Act No. 10591.
Meanwhile, authorities are coordinating with the appropriate social welfare office to ensure proper handling and intervention for the minor, in accordance with juvenile justice and child protection laws.
Police officials emphasized that the presence of a minor in the illegal drug trade highlights a disturbing trend, urging communities and families to be more vigilant in protecting young people from being drawn into criminal networks. Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the minor’s involvement and whether larger drug syndicates are operating in the area.