CAMP GALLEGO, Tubod, Lanao del Norte – June 5, 2025 — A police intelligence operation led to the arrest of a suspected drug user in Barangay Riverside, Baroy, Lanao del Norte, after a concerned Barangay Councilor reported a case of coconut fruit theft.
At around 2:00 PM, the Chief Intelligence Officer of the Baroy Municipal Police Station (BMPS) responded to the report in Purok 1, Riverside. While checking the area near a local copra drying facility known as “Landahan,” the officer noticed a suspiciously parked motorcycle. Upon further inspection, an unidentified male was found sniffing what appeared to be shabu.
The suspect, later identified as alias “Reymar,” a 23-year-old resident of Purok 6, Caniogan, Tubod, was immediately apprehended. The BMPS coordinated with its Officer-in-Charge to conduct proper crime scene documentation and a body search in the presence of two barangay officials.
The search resulted in the recovery of the following items:
- 15 heat-sealed plastic sachets containing a white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu,
- 6 used aluminum foils,
- 1 aluminum foil with suspected drug residue,
- 1 small black cylindrical plastic container,
- 3 disposable lighters (orange, blue, and green), and
- 2 ₱100 bills.
The seized substance has an estimated total weight of 3 grams and a street value of ₱20,400, according to standard drug pricing.
Authorities are preparing cases against the suspect for violating Sections 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) and 12 (Possession of Drug Paraphernalia) under Article II of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The suspect and confiscated items are currently in the custody of Baroy MPS for documentation and further legal proceedings.
Provincial Director PCOL Roy A. Magsalay of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office commended the prompt action of the responding officers and the vigilance of the community.
“This successful operation is a clear example of what can be achieved through community vigilance and rapid police response,” Magsalay said. “We commend the concerned Barangay Councilor who promptly reported the suspicious activity. Let this serve as a stern warning—those who continue to engage in illegal drug activities will be held accountable.”
The local police continue to urge residents to report suspicious activities to help maintain peace and order in the province.