MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL — A high-value individual and top-priority drug personality identified only as alias “Jemar” was arrested during a police buy-bust operation in Mati City, Davao Oriental, on Saturday evening, August 8, 2026.
The operation was carried out at around 7:54 p.m. in Purok Kaangayan, Barangay Badas, as personnel of the Mati City Police Station, together with other law enforcement agencies, intensified their campaign against illegal drugs in the city.
The operation was led by PCpt. Ariel A. Ismael, Deputy Chief of Police, under the supervision of PLtCol. Frederick C. Sa-ao, Acting Chief of Police, along with other participating law enforcement personnel.
Authorities identified alias Jemar as a High-Value Individual (HVI) and Top Priority Drug Personality, making the operation a significant accomplishment in the city’s continuing anti-illegal drug campaign.
During the operation, police operatives successfully arrested Jemar after he allegedly engaged in a drug transaction with undercover personnel.
Authorities said the suspect was caught in the act during the buy-bust operation, resulting in the seizure of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, reportedly worth approximately ₱340,000.
The confiscated substance was secured by the operating team and is expected to undergo the appropriate examination and inventory procedures as part of the investigation and preparation of the case against the suspect.
The arrest represents another major blow to the illegal drug trade operating in Mati City, particularly with the apprehension of an individual classified by authorities as a high-value and top-priority target.
Following the operation, the suspect was placed under police custody while authorities continued gathering evidence and completing the necessary documentation for the filing of appropriate charges. The seized suspected shabu will also be subjected to laboratory examination to confirm its composition.
Police authorities emphasized that the successful operation was made possible through coordinated law enforcement efforts and continued cooperation with the community.
The Mati City Police Station reiterated its commitment to strengthening its campaign against illegal drugs and other criminal activities, while encouraging residents to continue supporting law enforcement by providing information that could help authorities identify and dismantle drug networks operating in the area.
Authorities said the operation forms part of their continuing efforts to maintain peace and order and ensure a safer and more secure Mati City for residents and communities.
The case against alias Jemar remains subject to the completion of police investigation and the appropriate legal proceedings.