DATU SAUDI AMPATUAN, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR — A checkpoint operation by police authorities in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, led to the arrest of a motorcycle rider and the seizure of nearly 20 grams of a substance suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱134,368.
The operation was conducted at approximately 7:35 p.m. on October 2, 2026, along the National Highway in Barangay Kabengi, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, as part of intensified anti-criminality and police visibility efforts in the province.
Personnel of the Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (MDSPPO), led by Force Commander PLTCOL Erwin G. Tabora, together with Deputy Force Commander PMAJ Nelson B. Pedrico Jr. and PLT Rodel Xercis M. Baiño, platoon leader of the 1st Maneuver Platoon, conducted the operation in coordination with the Datu Saudi Ampatuan Municipal Police Station (MPS), headed by PMAJ Amil M. Andungan Jr., officer-in-charge.
During the checkpoint, police personnel flagged down a black SKYGO 125 motorcycle bearing plate number K965JC for inspection.
Authorities said the inspection resulted in the recovery of one heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing a white crystalline substance suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu. The substance reportedly weighed approximately 19.76 grams and was placed at an estimated market value of ₱134,368.
Police also recovered a piece of grip paper or notebook paper, a green lighter, and the motorcycle allegedly being used by the suspect.
The seized items were reportedly marked and documented by authorities in accordance with established procedures to preserve their evidentiary value and support the subsequent filing of appropriate charges.
The suspect was arrested and is facing allegations of violating Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code, concerning resistance and disobedience to a person in authority or the agents of such person, as well as Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The case remains subject to the appropriate investigation and legal proceedings. The suspected drug substance will have to undergo the required examination and confirmation by the proper authorities as part of the evidentiary process.
The operation forms part of the continuing efforts of the Maguindanao del Sur PMFC and its partner police units to strengthen police presence and conduct anti-criminality operations in strategic areas of the province.
Police authorities said these operations are intended to deter the movement of illegal drugs and other criminal activities while helping maintain peace and order in communities across Maguindanao del Sur.
Authorities also emphasized that law-enforcement operations must continue to observe due process and established procedures, particularly in the handling, documentation and presentation of seized items as evidence in court.