LEBAK, Sultan Kudarat – A High-Value Individual (HVI) was arrested during an early morning law enforcement operation that led to the seizure of suspected illegal drugs, firearms, an explosive device, and other evidence in Barangay Salaman, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, on July 22, 2026.
The operation, carried out at around 5:20 a.m., involved the implementation of court-issued search warrants targeting the suspect. Authorities said the raid resulted in the confiscation of approximately 10 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of ₱68,000, along with several dangerous weapons and items believed to be connected to illegal drug activities.
Among the evidence recovered were a fragmentation hand grenade, a loaded 12-gauge shotgun, a caliber .45 pistol with live ammunition, a digital weighing scale, and six motorcycles. Authorities also seized other pieces of evidence that will be used in the filing of appropriate criminal charges against the suspect.
Police emphasized that the operation was conducted strictly in accordance with legal procedures and in the presence of mandatory witnesses, ensuring compliance with the requirements under Philippine law governing the implementation of search warrants.
The arrested suspect is now under police custody and is expected to face multiple charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165), as well as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (Republic Act No. 10591). Additional charges may also be filed in connection with the possession of the fragmentation grenade and other recovered evidence, pending further investigation.
Authorities are also conducting follow-up investigations to determine whether the confiscated motorcycles and other seized items are linked to wider criminal activities or organized illegal drug operations in the area.
Police Regional Office 12 reiterated its commitment to intensifying anti-illegal drug and anti-criminality operations across the region.
“Kapag kumatok ang batas, walang puwang ang kriminalidad. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating kampanya laban sa ilegal na droga at mga armas upang mapanatiling ligtas at payapa ang ating mga komunidad,” said PBGEN Alan B. Manibog, Acting Regional Director of PRO-12.
The successful operation underscores the continuing efforts of law enforcement authorities to dismantle illegal drug networks and remove loose firearms and explosives from communities, reinforcing the government’s campaign to maintain peace, order, and public safety throughout Sultan Kudarat and the rest of Region 12.