AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Philippines — A series of intensified anti-illegal drug operations conducted by the Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (ADNPPO) resulted in the arrest of four drug suspects—including three classified as high-value individuals (HVIs)—and the seizure of approximately ₱272,000 worth of suspected shabu in separate buy-bust operations on April 8 and 9, 2026.
On April 9, operatives of the Cabadbaran City Police Station, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Agusan del Norte, carried out a successful buy-bust operation along the national highway in Purok 1A, Barangay Comagascas, Cabadbaran City. The operation led to the arrest of three suspects identified only by their aliases: “Troy,” 43; “Paul,” 43; and “Jona,” 32—all residents of Surigao City.
Authorities identified the trio as High-Value Individuals (HVIs) involved in illegal drug activities. Seized from their possession were suspected shabu and drug paraphernalia with an estimated value of ₱170,000.
A day earlier, on April 8, a separate buy-bust operation was conducted by the Santiago Municipal Police Station, also in coordination with PDEA, in Purok 2, Barangay Poblacion 1, Santiago, Agusan del Norte. The operation resulted in the arrest of alias “Franklyn,” 41, a tricycle driver and resident of Butuan City, who was categorized as a Street-Level Individual (SLI).
Authorities recovered suspected shabu worth ₱102,000 from the suspect.
All arrested individuals were informed of their constitutional rights in a language they understood and are now under police custody, facing charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The operations were conducted in the presence of representatives from the Department of Justice, media, and barangay officials, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal procedures.
PCOL April Mark C. Young, Provincial Director of ADNPPO, reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs in the province.
“Agusan del Norte police will not allow drug personalities to destroy families and weaken the moral fabric of our society. Those who continue to peddle or use illegal drugs will face the full force of the law,” Young said.
He added that the recent arrests demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and strong community cooperation.
“These successes bring us a step closer to a drug-free Agusan del Norte. We urge the public to continue working hand in hand with authorities to protect lives and secure our communities from the threats of illegal drugs,” he said.
The ADNPPO said operations against illegal drugs will continue to be intensified as part of its broader effort to dismantle drug networks and ensure public safety across the province.