LANTAWAN, BASILAN — Authorities arrested a high-value target and confiscated illegal drugs and explosive materials during a joint law enforcement operation in Barangay Lower Bañas, Lantawan, Basilan on May 28, 2025.
The successful operation was carried out through the implementation of two search warrants in Purok 2 and was led by the Regional Intelligence and Arrest Team BASULTA, in coordination with multiple police and special action units including the Lantawan Municipal Police Station, Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), Regional Intelligence Unit 9 – Basilan Provincial Intelligence Team, 52nd Special Action Company, 5th Special Action Battalion, Special Action Force, and the 1404th Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-B. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PDEA-BAR) also provided support.
The search warrants, issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 2 of the 9th Judicial Region in Basilan, were in connection with violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).
A barangay official was arrested during the raid, while another suspect remains at large and is the subject of a continuing manhunt.
Seized during the operation were:
- 3 grams of suspected shabu valued at approximately PHP 24,100, contained in two heat-sealed plastic sachets
- 62 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition
- One explosive charge weighing about 500 grams
- An 18-inch detonating cord
- A rigged MyPhone keypad cellphone with wiring and detonating cord
- A blasting cap with electronic wiring hidden in a blue plastic box
- An empty 81mm mortar munitions case
All evidence was properly documented and marked at the scene in the presence of witnesses and local residents, following standard legal procedures.
The arrested suspect is currently in the custody of the Lantawan Municipal Police Station for further investigation and legal action.
Police Brigadier General Romeo J. Macapaz, Regional Director of the Police Regional Office – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), lauded the operatives for their successful action.
“I commend every officer who contributed to the success of this high-impact law enforcement action. Your courage and professionalism bring us one step closer to a safer and drug-free region. Let this be a stern message to all criminal elements: the rule of law will prevail,” said PBGEN Macapaz.
He also reaffirmed PRO BAR’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations and close collaboration with law enforcement partners and communities in combating illegal drugs and criminality.