Authorities scored a major breakthrough in the campaign against illegal drugs after approximately five kilograms of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of around P34 million were confiscated during a large-scale anti-drug operation conducted in the town center on Tuesday afternoon.
The successful buy-bust operation was jointly carried out by the Regional Drug Enforcement Unit-9 (RDEU-9) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), leading to the arrest of three alleged high-value drug personalities inside the basement parking area of a major business establishment located in the center of town.
According to law enforcement authorities, the operation was launched following verified intelligence reports indicating that the area was allegedly being used as a meeting point for illegal drug transactions. Operatives then conducted a controlled buy-bust operation which resulted in the immediate apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of several packs containing the alleged shabu.
Authorities said the confiscated illegal drugs weighed approximately five kilograms and are believed to be part of a larger distribution network operating within and outside the locality. Investigators are now tracing the origin of the illegal substances and identifying possible accomplices connected to the operation.
Police and anti-drug operatives emphasized that the operation forms part of the intensified crackdown against illegal narcotics and organized drug syndicates, especially in crowded public places and commercial centers where illegal transactions are often concealed among legitimate activities.
The seized evidence was properly inventoried, marked, and documented in the presence of required witnesses before being turned over to the appropriate office for laboratory examination and legal processing.
The three arrested individuals are now under police custody and are expected to face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Authorities likewise urged the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities in their communities, stressing that public participation remains crucial in maintaining peace, order, and public safety.