IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — Operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) successfully dismantled a drug den and arrested four individuals during the implementation of a search warrant on February 10, 2026, in Purok Jupiter, Barangay Bangkerohan, Ipil, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
The operation was carried out through Search Warrant Order No. FC9-SW-2026-049 and was led by PDEA Zamboanga Sibugay, with support from the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, Ipil Municipal Police Station, Naval Intelligence, and the NISG Western Mindanao.
Authorities said the successful operation was the result of close coordination and intelligence sharing among law enforcement and security units in the province.
Those arrested were identified as Joel, 57, married, and the alleged maintainer of the drug den and a resident of Purok Jupiter; Edgar, 31, single; Ramel, 35, married, both reportedly visitors at the time of the raid and residents of Purok Sampaguita A, Barangay Don Andres; and Billy Joe, 22, single, believed to be a worker at the drug den and also a resident of Purok Jupiter.
Operatives seized 19 transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu weighing no less than 25 grams, with an estimated standard drug price of ₱170,000. Also recovered were opened sachets with drug residue, aluminum foil, disposable lighters, and various drug paraphernalia, indicating the active use and distribution of illegal drugs inside the premises.
Officials said the presence of multiple drug-related items strongly suggested that the location was being used not only for selling but also for consuming prohibited substances.
The four suspects are now facing charges for violations of Sections 6, 7, 11, and 12 under Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. They are currently in the custody of authorities while awaiting inquest and further legal proceedings.
PDEA officials reiterated their commitment to intensify anti-drug operations across Zamboanga Sibugay, urging the public to continue cooperating with authorities by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.