COTABATO CITY — Two alleged high-value drug personalities were arrested after falling into a meticulously planned buy-bust operation launched by the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group–Special Operations Unit 11 (PDEG SOU 11) in Mother Poblacion, Cotabato City, on Wednesday afternoon, November 20.
The suspects, identified as Tato Mohammad alias “Tats,” 30, a tricycle driver, and Joanna Kutap alias “Ana,” 31, a vendor, were taken into custody at around 3:39 p.m. after transacting with an undercover operative. Both are residents of Mother Poblacion and are tagged as high-value targets in the city’s intensified anti-drug campaign.
Authorities seized 305 grams of suspected shabu during the operation—packed in six jumbo-size knot-tied plastic bags and one medium-sized sachet—with an estimated street value of ₱2,074,000. Also recovered were a genuine ₱1,000 bill used as marked money, several photocopied bills, a khaki sling bag, and a yellow lighter.
PDEG SOU 11 Chief PCOL. Joelito Espero and Police Station 1 Commander PMaj. Teofisto Ferrer Jr. confirmed that the operation was carried out in coordination with the SAF 42nd Special Action Company, 4th Special Action Battalion, the 1st Marine Brigade, the City Mobile Force Company, and the Cotabato City Police Office under PCol. Jibin Bongcayao.
The seized evidence underwent proper tagging, inventory, and documentation in compliance with Section 21 of RA 9165, witnessed by insulating observers and the arrested individuals.
The suspects are now detained at Police Station 1 and will face multiple charges for violating Sections 5, 11, and 26 of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Authorities emphasized that the operation is part of the PNP’s strengthened efforts to dismantle drug networks in Cotabato City, where the demand and circulation of illegal drugs are reportedly being closely monitored.
Police warned that intensified operations will continue as part of the city’s ongoing campaign to curb illegal drug activities.