DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — Four individuals were arrested after anti-narcotics operatives dismantled an alleged drug den during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Aplaya, Digos City, on the afternoon of October 27, 2026, authorities reported.
The operation was conducted at approximately 4:45 p.m. by personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 11 (PDEA RO11), through its Davao del Sur Provincial Office, in coordination with the Davao Sur Police Provincial Office and the Digos City Police Station.
Authorities identified the primary suspect as alias “Gaw,” 29, who was allegedly maintaining the drug den. Investigators said Gaw was arrested after allegedly selling one sachet containing suspected shabu, weighing approximately one gram and valued at ₱7,000, to a PDEA operative acting as a poseur-buyer.
Three other individuals were also apprehended during the operation. They were identified as alias “Along,” allegedly employed at the drug den, and aliases “Nin” and “Dagul,” who were described by authorities as visitors at the suspected drug den.
The operation resulted in the seizure of five sachets containing suspected shabu, with a combined estimated weight of 20 grams and a reported street value of ₱136,000. Authorities also confiscated assorted drug paraphernalia and the marked money used in the alleged transaction.
Based on the reported figures, the suspected shabu seized during the operation had an estimated combined street value of ₱143,000, including the one-gram sachet allegedly sold to the poseur-buyer. The authorities did not provide further details on the specific items of drug paraphernalia recovered.
The four arrested individuals are expected to face appropriate charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended.
PDEA RO11 Regional Director Atty. Benjamin G. Gaspi stressed the importance of sustained anti-drug operations and close coordination among law enforcement agencies in addressing illegal drug activities across the region.
He said dismantling suspected drug dens is an important measure in preventing the spread of illegal drugs and shielding communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse. He also urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in efforts to promote safer, drug-free communities throughout the Davao Region.
The case adds to law enforcement efforts targeting suspected local drug distribution sites, although the allegations against the arrested individuals remain subject to investigation and the judicial process.
All suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.