AMPATUAN, Maguindanao del Sur — A coordinated anti-illegal drug operation led by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro region resulted in the arrest of two suspected drug pushers and the seizure of illegal drugs valued at ₱3.4 million during a buy-bust operation on March 23, 2026.
Operatives from PDEA BARMM, through the PDEA Maguindanao del Norte Provincial Office, spearheaded the operation in Barangay Kauran, Ampatuan, with support from multiple law enforcement and military units. These included the Land Interdiction Unit, PDEA Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Office, Philippine National Police Regional Drug Enforcement Unit, the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, Ampatuan Municipal Police Station, Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, and elements of Charlie Company, 90th Infantry Battalion under the 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.
Authorities identified the arrested suspects as alias “Aris,” 40, and alias “Dats,” 43, both married. The duo was apprehended after allegedly selling illegal drugs to an undercover operative during the buy-bust transaction.
Seized from the suspects were ten heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing approximately 500 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱3,400,000. Also recovered were two mobile phones, marked buy-bust money, a black belt bag, a brown ID holder, and two identification cards.
Law enforcement officials described the operation as a significant blow to the illegal drug trade in the province, underscoring the continued collaboration among anti-drug units, local police, and military forces in curbing narcotics distribution in the Bangsamoro region.
Criminal charges for violation of Section 5 (Sale of Dangerous Drugs) under Republic Act 9165 are now being prepared against the suspects.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intensify anti-drug operations and urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperative in reporting suspicious activities in their communities.