TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — Authorities seized approximately 70 grams of suspected shabu valued at P476,000 and arrested an alleged drug personality during a joint anti-illegal drugs operation in Tubod, Lanao del Norte, on July 1.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Lino,” 46, unemployed, living with a partner, and a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Poblacion, was apprehended after allegedly selling illegal drugs to an undercover police operative during a buy-bust operation.
The operation was jointly conducted by the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) Team 3, the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) of Lanao del Norte, the 1005th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB-10), the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of Lanao del Norte, and the Tubod Municipal Police Station.
During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered several heat-sealed plastic sachets containing suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, with a combined weight of 70 grams. The confiscated illegal drugs have an estimated Standard Drug Price (SDP) of P476,000.
Authorities also recovered the marked buy-bust money, a coin pouch, and a sling bag believed to have been used in the illegal drug transaction.
The seized items were properly inventoried and will undergo forensic laboratory examination as part of the investigation.
Following his arrest, the suspect was taken into the custody of the Tubod Municipal Police Station, where he is being processed for the filing of appropriate charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police officials said the successful operation underscores the continuing efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the proliferation of illegal drugs in the province through intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration.
The Philippine National Police also renewed its appeal for public cooperation, urging residents to immediately report any information regarding illegal drug activities and other criminal offenses in their communities.
Authorities emphasized that community support remains a crucial component in sustaining the government’s campaign against illegal drugs and ensuring safer neighborhoods across Lanao del Norte.