GENERAL SANTOS CITY – A 53-year-old tricycle driver identified only by his aliases “Poldo” and “Omeng,” tagged by authorities as a High-Value Individual (HVI) in the illegal drug trade, was arrested after police seized nearly ₱175,000 worth of suspected shabu during the implementation of a search warrant in Barangay Lagao on Friday, June 26.
The operation was carried out by the General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO) through its City Police Drug Enforcement Unit (CPDEU), in coordination with Police Station 3, the City Intelligence Unit (CIU), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office XII.
Authorities served Search Warrant No. 26-80 at the suspect’s residence in Purok 1, Barangay Lagao, leading to the confiscation of approximately 25.66 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated National Drug Seizure Value (NDSV) of ₱174,488.
Also recovered during the operation were a digital weighing scale and other drug paraphernalia believed to have been used in the illegal drug trade.
Police said the suspect was immediately informed of his constitutional rights before being taken into custody. He also underwent a medical examination and was later placed under the temporary custody of Police Station 3 while the necessary criminal charges are being prepared.
The suspect will face charges for Violation of Section 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which penalizes the illegal possession of dangerous drugs.
The Police Regional Office 12 (PRO-12), under the leadership of Acting Regional Director Brig. Gen. Alan B. Manibog, described the operation as another significant accomplishment in the region’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.
Meanwhile, the General Santos City Police Office, led by Acting City Director Col. Eric R. De Venancio, emphasized that the search warrant was implemented peacefully and strictly in accordance with legal procedures.
Authorities noted that mandatory witnesses from both the media and the barangay were present throughout the operation, ensuring transparency and compliance with legal requirements during the conduct of the search.
Police also reiterated their commitment to pursuing sustained, intelligence-driven anti-illegal drug operations aimed at dismantling drug networks and maintaining peace and order in General Santos City.
The GSCPO said it remains steadfast in its campaign to rid communities of illegal drugs while ensuring that all law enforcement operations are conducted lawfully, professionally, and with full respect for due process.