Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte — July 18, 2025 — Authorities arrested a suspected drug dealer at a checkpoint in Barangay Upper Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat (DOS), seizing shabu worth over ₱1 million in a major anti-drug operation Friday afternoon.
The suspect, identified as Alvin Solano, 25, married and jobless, and a resident of Barangay Margues, was intercepted at the checkpoint led by the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st PMFC-MDN PPO) under Force Commander PLTCOL Esmael Madin, in coordination with the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station (DOSMPS).
According to DOSMPS Deputy Chief PCapt Sammy Paning, the suspect was riding a motorcycle when he was stopped for routine inspection. Recovered from Solano were a motorcycle, a keypad cellphone, and a red eco-bag containing three jumbo-size plastic sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 150 grams, with an estimated street value of ₱1,020,000 based on national drug pricing.
The illegal drugs were found concealed in the motorcycle’s toolbox. Authorities believe Solano had come from Barangay Dalican and was possibly attempting to smuggle the contraband to nearby towns or Cotabato City. His plan, however, was thwarted by heightened police security coinciding with the visit of PNP Chief Police General Nicolas Torre III in the area of responsibility of Police Regional Office 12 (PRO12).
Datu Odin Sinsuat Mayor Abdulmain “Datu Baba” Abas was present during the arrest and reiterated his stern warning to those involved in illegal drug activities. He called on drug users and pushers to abandon their trade while they still can.
“This arrest is just one among several operations that show our serious resolve to eliminate illegal drugs in our municipality,” Mayor Abas said. “My administration is committed to building a new Datu Odin Sinsuat — peaceful, progressive, and drug-cleared.”
The suspect is currently detained at DOSMPS and is facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.