A 38-year-old construction worker was arrested after authorities seized a significant amount of suspected shabu during an intelligence-driven checkpoint operation on the night of April 11, 2025, along the National Highway in Barangay Meta.
The suspect, identified as Arturo Jr., a resident of Purok San Antonio, Poblacion Tampakan, South Cotabato, is now facing charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
According to police reports, operatives launched the checkpoint following a tip-off regarding the suspect’s alleged transport of illegal drugs. Authorities received information that Arturo Jr. was traveling from Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte en route to Koronadal City while carrying contraband.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, personnel of the Datu Unsay Municipal Police Station, led by Police Captain Argie A. Eyana and supported by other police units, established a checkpoint along the suspect’s reported route.
During the inspection, officers discovered a jumbo-sized sachet containing approximately 48.6 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱330,480 based on Dangerous Drugs Board valuation. The illegal substance was reportedly concealed inside the compartment of the motorcycle used by the suspect.
Authorities also confiscated the motorcycle along with other personal belongings of the suspect as part of the evidence.
Police ensured that proper procedures were followed during the arrest. The suspect was informed of his constitutional rights in accordance with the Miranda Doctrine and the Anti-Torture Law before being taken into custody.
He is currently detained at the Datu Unsay Municipal Police Station while authorities prepare the necessary charges against him. The suspect will also undergo medical and laboratory examinations as part of the ongoing investigation.
The successful operation highlights the continued efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the movement of illegal drugs across key transit routes in Mindanao, particularly through intelligence-driven operations aimed at intercepting high-value targets and preventing the distribution of narcotics in communities.