MATI CITY, Davao Oriental — Authorities arrested a suspected High-Value Individual (HVI) in an anti-illegal drugs operation that led to the seizure of suspected shabu worth more than P2.4 million in Mati City on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Jinky,” was apprehended during a joint buy-bust operation conducted at around 5:50 p.m. in Purok Bayanihan, Barangay Sainz, Mati City.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the Mati City Police Station, led by Police Captain Ariel A. Ismael, Deputy Chief of Police, under the supervision of Police Lieutenant Colonel Frederick C. Sa-ao, Acting Chief of Police. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and other law enforcement agencies.
According to police reports, the suspect was caught in the act during the buy-bust operation. Authorities recovered several sachets and packages containing suspected shabu from the suspect’s possession.
The confiscated illegal drugs were estimated to have a street value of approximately P2,448,000, making the operation one of the significant anti-drug accomplishments recorded in the city this year.
Investigators are currently conducting further case build-up and inventory procedures to determine the full extent of the suspect’s alleged involvement in the local illegal drug trade. The seized evidence will be subjected to laboratory examination as part of the legal process.
Authorities said charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 are being prepared against the suspect.
The Mati City Police emphasized that the successful operation resulted from intelligence-driven efforts and close coordination among law enforcement agencies, as well as information provided by concerned members of the community.
Police officials reiterated their commitment to intensifying anti-illegal drug operations across Mati City to curb the proliferation of dangerous drugs and ensure the safety of residents.
“We will continue conducting intelligence-driven operations and strengthening our partnership with the community to maintain a safer and more peaceful Mati City,” authorities said.
The arrest underscores the continuing campaign of law enforcement agencies against illegal drugs, particularly targeting high-value individuals believed to be involved in the distribution of prohibited substances in the region.