GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — Police arrested a 40-year-old man known by the alias “Barok” after authorities seized 29.61 grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated ₱201,348 and a .38-caliber revolver during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Dadiangas West on August 17, 2026.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the City Police Drug Enforcement Unit (CPDEU), Criminal Investigation Unit (CIU), and Police Station 1 of the General Santos City Police Office as part of intensified efforts to curb the illegal drug trade and the proliferation of unlicensed firearms in the city.
Police said the operation was initiated after a poseur-buyer successfully purchased one sachet of suspected shabu from the suspect using a marked ₱1,000 bill. The transaction prompted the arrest of “Barok” at the scene.
A subsequent search of the suspect reportedly led to the recovery of six additional sachets containing suspected shabu. Police said the total seized substance weighed 29.61 grams and had an estimated street value of ₱201,348.
Authorities also recovered a .38-caliber revolver loaded with two live rounds of ammunition, together with the marked money used in the operation and other personal belongings.
The arrest underscores the continuing concern of law enforcement over the connection between illegal drugs and the unlawful possession or use of firearms. The recovery of a loaded handgun alongside the suspected narcotics adds a separate firearms-related component to the case now being prepared against the suspect.
Following the operation, “Barok” was brought to Police Station 1 for proper documentation and disposition. The confiscated suspected shabu was submitted for laboratory examination to determine its chemical composition, while the recovered firearm and ammunition were referred for ballistic examination.
Police said complaints are being prepared for inquest proceedings against the suspect for alleged violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Section 5 of RA 9165 covers the illegal sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery and distribution of dangerous drugs, while Section 11 covers illegal possession of dangerous drugs. The firearms case will be subject to the findings of the investigation and examination of the recovered weapon and ammunition.
The police operation also drew a firm statement from Police Regional Office 12 Director PBGEN Alan B. Manibog, who emphasized the regional police command’s continuing campaign against illegal drugs and firearms.
“Hindi natin hahayaang lumaganap ang iligal na droga at armas sa ating mga komunidad. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating mga operasyon upang mapanatili ang kaligtasan at kapayapaan ng ating mga kababayan,” Manibog said.
The case remains subject to the required investigation, laboratory and ballistic examinations, and prosecutorial proceedings. The suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The operation forms part of the continuing law enforcement campaign in General Santos City aimed at disrupting the distribution of illegal drugs and addressing the presence of unauthorized firearms that could further threaten public safety.