ZAMBOANGA CITY — More than ₱2 million worth of suspected shabu was seized during a drug buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PNP-DEG) and other law enforcement units in Barangay Baliwasan, Zamboanga City.
The operation targeted an alleged illegal drug transaction in the vicinity of Billiard Drive along San Jose Road in Barangay Baliwasan. Police reported that the operation resulted in the arrest of a habal-habal driver reportedly from Barangay Tugbungan.
According to the initial information provided by authorities, the operation was carried out as part of the PNP-DEG’s continuing campaign against the illegal drug trade in the city. The suspect was allegedly arrested during the conduct of the buy-bust operation after authorities established the circumstances surrounding the suspected drug transaction.
Law enforcement personnel reportedly recovered suspected shabu with an estimated street value of more than ₱2 million during the operation. The seized substance was secured as evidence for proper documentation and examination.
The arrested individual is expected to face charges related to violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, subject to the completion of the investigation and the determination of prosecutors based on the evidence presented by authorities.
Police have not disclosed additional details that could compromise the ongoing investigation, including the identity of other individuals who may be linked to the seized drugs or the broader distribution network allegedly being targeted.
The operation underscores the continuing efforts of the PNP-DEG and other law enforcement units to disrupt the movement and distribution of illegal drugs in Zamboanga City. Authorities have repeatedly emphasized that operations against suspected drug personalities will continue as part of efforts to prevent illegal drugs from reaching communities.
The confiscated substance will undergo the required laboratory examination and inventory procedures, while the arrested suspect remains under police custody pending the filing and resolution of appropriate charges.
Authorities also reminded the public that individuals arrested in anti-drug operations are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Further details on the operation, including the exact quantity of the seized substance, the identity of the arrested suspect, and the specific charges to be filed, are expected to be released by authorities as the investigation progresses.