KABACAN, Cotabato — Two individuals were arrested and approximately 18 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of ₱122,400 were confiscated during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Kayaga, Kabacan, Cotabato, on October 1, 2026.
The operation was carried out at around 8:30 p.m. by personnel of the Kabacan Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the Cotabato Police Provincial Office–Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), and the 2nd Mobile Company of the Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company.
Police identified the arrested suspects by their aliases as “Empoy,” 25, a goat vendor and resident of Poblacion, Kabacan, and “Berting,” 24, an unemployed resident of Poblacion, Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur.
Authorities said the operation led to the recovery of four sachets containing suspected shabu, with a combined estimated weight of approximately 18 grams.
Aside from the suspected illegal drugs, law enforcement personnel also recovered a .45 caliber 1911 pistol, one .45 caliber magazine, and four rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The marked money used during the controlled purchase was likewise recovered.
The seizure of the firearm and ammunition adds a separate element to the case as authorities proceed with the documentation and examination of the evidence. Police said the firearm and ammunition will undergo ballistics examination to determine their technical characteristics and other relevant details.
Meanwhile, the confiscated substance will be submitted for laboratory chemistry examination to determine whether it is indeed methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu.
The two suspects were placed under police custody after undergoing medical examination. Authorities said appropriate charges are now being prepared for inquest proceedings before the proper prosecutor.
Police have yet to disclose the specific charges that will be filed, pending the completion of the evidence processing and legal evaluation.
The operation underscores the continuing anti-illegal drug campaign of law enforcement units in Cotabato, particularly through coordinated intelligence and enforcement operations targeting suspected drug activities in local communities.
All allegations against the arrested individuals remain subject to the ongoing investigation and the determination of the proper authorities. They are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.