CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Three individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade were arrested during a successful anti-drug operation conducted by law enforcement authorities in Barangay Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City, on June 8.
The suspects were identified only by their aliases “RJ,” 34; “Ann,” 35; and “JJ,” 44, all residents of Piaping Itom, Macabalan. Authorities apprehended the trio during a buy-bust operation led by the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 10 (RPDEU-10).
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Special Enforcement Team 10 (PDEA RSET-10), the City Intelligence Unit, Police Station 5 of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO), the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group Special Operations Unit 10 (PNP DEG SOU 10), the 1001st Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB 10), and the Regional Intelligence Unit 10.
Authorities confiscated approximately 200 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated Standard Drug Price of ₱1.36 million. The seizure dealt a significant blow to the illegal drug distribution network operating within the city.
Also recovered during the operation were two pieces of ₱1,000 marked buy-bust money and various drug paraphernalia believed to have been used in the packaging, repacking, and distribution of illegal drugs.
According to the initial investigation, alias “RJ” had previously been arrested twice for drug-related offenses, indicating a history of involvement in illegal drug activities. Meanwhile, alias “Ann,” who was identified as RJ’s live-in partner, and alias “JJ” were reported to be first-time offenders.
Investigators also revealed that the confiscated illegal drugs were allegedly sourced from Marawi City and transported to Cagayan de Oro City for distribution to various areas within the city. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify other individuals who may be connected to the supply and distribution chain.
Following their arrest, the suspects were placed under the custody of the Maharlika Detention Cell while authorities prepare the filing of charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Section 5 pertains to the sale, trading, administration, and distribution of illegal drugs, while Section 11 covers the possession of dangerous drugs.
The seized substances will undergo qualitative and quantitative examinations by the Regional Forensic Unit 10 to confirm their composition and exact weight.
Police Regional Office 10 Regional Director, Christopher N. Abrahano, commended the operatives involved in the successful operation and reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs across Northern Mindanao.
“The successful operation demonstrates the strong coordination among law enforcement agencies in curbing the proliferation of illegal drugs in the region. We will continue to pursue drug personalities and dismantle drug networks to ensure the safety and security of our communities,” Abrahano said.
Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting anti-drug efforts by reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies as the government strengthens its crackdown on illegal drug operations throughout Northern Mindanao.