UPI, Maguindanao del Norte — A coordinated anti-illegal drug operation led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) resulted in the dismantling of a suspected drug den and the arrest of four individuals in a buy-bust operation conducted in Barrio Site, Barangay Mirab, Upi, Maguindanao del Norte on Wednesday, May 21, 2026.
The successful operation was spearheaded by the PDEA Maguindanao del Norte Provincial Office in close coordination with multiple law enforcement units, including the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Maguindanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, Regional Intelligence Unit 15, PNP Drug Enforcement Group Special Operations Unit 15, and the Upi Municipal Police Station.
Authorities confirmed the arrest of four drug personalities identified only through aliases as “Aisa,” 43, the alleged maintainer of the drug den; “Ulan,” 56; “Michael,” 51; and “Tato,” 35, all married and residents of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel confiscated 17 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, with an estimated weight of approximately 25 grams and a standard drug value of around ₱170,000. Also recovered from the scene were two cellular phones, assorted drug paraphernalia, and four identification cards believed to be linked to the suspects’ illegal activities.
Authorities said the operation stemmed from sustained surveillance and intelligence buildup targeting reported drug activities in the area, which eventually led to the successful buy-bust and the neutralization of the alleged drug den.
The arrested suspects are now facing charges for violations of Sections 5 (sale of dangerous drugs), 6 (maintenance of a drug den), 7 (visitors of a drug den), 11 (possession of dangerous drugs), and 12 (possession of drug paraphernalia) of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Officials underscored that the operation reflects the continued and strengthened campaign of PDEA and its partner agencies against illegal drugs, emphasizing their commitment to dismantling drug networks and safeguarding communities in Maguindanao del Norte and surrounding areas.
Authorities further assured that intensified operations will continue as part of a broader strategy to curb the proliferation of illegal drugs and bring offenders to justice.