COTABATO CITY — Anti-narcotics operatives in the Bangsamoro region confiscated an estimated ₱3.4 million worth of suspected shabu and neutralized a high-value target during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Purakan, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur on April 15, 2026.
Authorities identified the suspect as Farouk Ampuan Ansa, 54, a resident of Calanogas, Lanao del Sur, who had been under surveillance for alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.
The operation was spearheaded by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency – Regional Special Enforcement Team in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), in coordination with the Philippine National Police – Regional Drug Enforcement Unit, Balabagan Municipal Police Station, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 1402nd, the 44th Special Action Company of the Special Action Force, and the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company.
According to operational reports, Ansa allegedly attempted to resist arrest after the transaction had been completed. He reportedly drew a firearm and opened fire at the arresting officers, prompting operatives to return fire.
Ansa sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange and was rushed to the nearest hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
Recovered from the scene were approximately 500 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, packed in five knot-tied plastic sachets. Authorities placed the estimated standard drug value at ₱3,400,000.
Operatives also seized a Taurus 9mm pistol with a loaded magazine containing 15 rounds of ammunition, a mobile phone, marked buy-bust money, and a Land Transportation Office identification card bearing the suspect’s name.
Law enforcement officials said the successful operation underscores the continuing intensified campaign against illegal drugs in the Bangsamoro region, particularly targeting high-value individuals involved in the narcotics trade.
Further investigation is underway to determine the extent of Ansa’s network and possible links to other illegal drug operations in Lanao del Sur and nearby areas.