SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte — A 45-year-old man identified by authorities as a high-value drug suspect was arrested after police recovered 55.5 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated Standard Drug Price (SDP) of ₱377,400, along with a .40-caliber pistol and ammunition, during a buy-bust operation in Surigao City on September 30.
The operation was conducted at around 6:13 p.m. in Purok Narra, Barangay Quezon, Surigao City, by the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) as the lead unit, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Provincial Director PCOL Warren E. Dablo identified the arrested suspect as alias “Tata,” a 45-year-old male, driver, with a live-in partner and a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Sta. Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte.
Police said the operation was carried out as a buy-bust and entrapment operation for an alleged violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
55.5 Grams of Suspected Shabu Recovered
Authorities reported recovering 11 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, with a combined estimated weight of 55.5 grams and an estimated SDP value of ₱377,400.
The operation also resulted in the seizure of several other items allegedly connected to the suspect, including a genuine ₱1,000 bill used in the operation, a black sling bag, a black sunglasses pouch and a transparent cellophane.
More significantly, police recovered a Para 1911 Carry .40-caliber pistol, together with two .40-caliber magazines and 13 rounds of ammunition.
A Suzuki vehicle key and a white Suzuki Multicab bearing plate number KBG 4011 were also taken into police custody.
The presence of the firearm and ammunition adds another dimension to the case as investigators proceed with the documentation and disposition of the seized items in accordance with established procedures.
Previously Arrested in 2016
According to the Provincial DEU, “Tata” had previously been arrested by the Placer Municipal Police Station in 2016 for an alleged violation of Republic Act No. 9165.
Police records indicated that he was subsequently released from the Surigao del Norte Provincial Jail in 2020.
The latest arrest places the suspect once again under police custody as authorities process the evidence and prepare the appropriate charges.
The suspect and all confiscated items are currently under the custody of the SDN-PDEU for proper disposition and further legal proceedings.
Authorities said a body search was conducted in an orderly manner and in the presence of the Barangay Captain of Barangay Quezon, Surigao City, and a representative from the National Prosecution Service (NPS).
Police Vow Continued Anti-Drug Operations
PCOL Dablo reaffirmed the SDN police’s commitment to its campaign against illegal drugs and other criminal activities, emphasizing the importance of lawful police operations and cooperation among government agencies and communities.
“The SDN PNP remains resolute in its campaign against illegal drugs and criminal activities through lawful police operations and strong inter-agency and community cooperation. We urge the public to stay vigilant and report illegal drug activities. Together, we can keep our communities safe and drug-free,” Dablo said.
The arrest underscores the continuing anti-drug operations being conducted by law enforcement authorities in Surigao del Norte, with police and PDEA personnel working together in intelligence-driven and entrapment operations.
The charges to be filed against the suspect will depend on the evidence gathered and the appropriate provisions of law determined by prosecutors. The seized substances will likewise undergo the required examination and documentation as part of the legal process.
As the case moves forward, authorities reiterated their appeal for residents to remain vigilant and report suspected illegal drug activities through proper channels.