DAVAO CITY — A 16-year-old Alternative Learning System (ALS) student was rescued while his 21-year-old companion was arrested during a coordinated anti-drug operation conducted by law enforcement authorities in Barangay Lapu-Lapu on Tuesday afternoon, April 7, 2026.
Authorities identified the minor as alias “JYD,” a resident of Isla Noah, who was reportedly involved in the illegal sale of suspected marijuana. His companion, alias “Colot,” 21, was apprehended during the same operation.
The operation, carried out past 5:00 p.m., was led by members of the City Drug Enforcement Unit of the Davao City Police Office, in coordination with the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit and the 1st and 2nd City Mobile Force Companies, along with other police units.
According to police reports, operatives initially conducted a buy-bust transaction with the minor, which led to the confiscation of suspected marijuana. Authorities were able to seize additional plastic-wrapped packages believed to contain the illegal substance during the operation.
The total estimated value of the drugs purchased and recovered from the suspects reached ₱67,200.
The minor was placed under protective custody following his rescue, in line with protocols involving children in conflict with the law, while his adult companion remains under police custody pending the filing of appropriate charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Both individuals are currently being held at the Santa Ana Police Station as authorities continue their investigation to determine the extent of their involvement and possible links to a larger drug network operating in the area.
Police officials reiterated their commitment to intensifying anti-illegal drug operations across Davao City, while also emphasizing the importance of intervention and rehabilitation programs for minors exploited in the illegal drug trade.