BUTUAN CITY — A high-value drug suspect was arrested and an estimated ₱680,000 worth of suspected shabu confiscated in an intensified anti-illegal drugs operation conducted by the Police Regional Office 13 in Barangay Banza on April 21.
Police identified the suspect as alias “Uto,” 40, a resident of Purok Malunggay, Barangay Maon, this city. He was tagged as a High-Value Individual (HVI) in the region’s anti-drug watchlist.
The buy-bust operation was carried out in Purok 4, Barangay Banza by operatives of the Drug Enforcement Unit of Butuan City Police Station 1, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 13.
Authorities reported the seizure of eight sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 100 grams, with an estimated street value of ₱680,000. Also recovered during the operation were a marked ₱1,000 bill, 31 pieces of ₱1,000 bills used as buy-bust money, a cellular phone, a sling bag, a motorcycle, and ₱700 in assorted cash.
The suspect and the confiscated evidence are now under the custody of the arresting unit for proper documentation and disposition, as authorities prepare to file charges.
Police Brigadier General Marcial Mariano P Magistrado IV, director of PRO13, reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs and criminality.
“Our relentless campaign against illegal drugs and all forms of criminality will continue. I urge the public and all stakeholders to work hand in hand with PRO13 to eradicate problems on illegal drugs and other threats to peace and order in the community,” Magistrado said.
The suspect is set to face charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, the country’s primary law penalizing the manufacture, sale, and possession of dangerous drugs.
The latest operation underscores the continuing anti-drug efforts in Caraga Region, as law enforcement agencies ramp up coordination to dismantle drug networks and curb the proliferation of illegal substances in urban communities.