Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur — Authorities intercepted an estimated ₱68 million worth of suspected shabu during a routine checkpoint operation along the national highway in Barangay Buenavista on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, after discovering illegal drugs concealed inside a modified tricycle locally known as “bao-bao.”
The suspect was identified as Jomar M. Abdullah, a resident of Esteros Street, Cotabato City, who is now in police custody at a detention facility in Pagadian City while facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
According to Police Major Jason Ray Z. Gomera of the Provincial Highway Patrol Team–Zamboanga del Sur (PHPT-ZDS), the operation was part of ongoing anti-carnapping efforts, including Oplan Sita and other highway safety initiatives, conducted in coordination with the Special Operations Team–Molave, Pagadian City Police Station, and the 902nd Regional Mobile Force Battalion.
The operation began when law enforcers flagged down Abdullah’s tricycle for a routine inspection. Authorities noted that the driver failed to present a Certificate of Registration (CR), prompting the immediate impoundment of the vehicle for verification.
During a subsequent technical inspection and inventory, officers discovered a hidden compartment beneath the passenger seat of the tricycle. This prompted coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to ensure proper handling and validation of the suspected contraband.
An on-site inventory conducted in the presence of media representatives and barangay officials revealed ten (10) plastic packs containing white crystalline substances suspected to be shabu. Each pack reportedly weighed around one kilogram, with a total estimated street value of ₱68 million.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that laboratory testing and further documentation are underway, while the seized items have already been turned over to PDEG for proper custody and disposition.
Initial investigation indicates that the contraband was allegedly intended for delivery within Pagadian City. Authorities are now probing possible links to larger drug trafficking networks and identifying other individuals who may be involved in the operation.
Police have not yet disclosed whether Abdullah has any known accomplices, but coordination among anti-narcotics units continues as the case develops.
“This is part of our sustained campaign not only against illegal drugs but also against all forms of criminality on our highways,” authorities said in a joint statement, emphasizing that further investigations will determine the origin and intended distribution chain of the seized drugs.
The arrest marks one of the significant drug interdictions in the region this year, underscoring intensified law enforcement operations across Zamboanga Peninsula.