ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities seized nearly three kilograms of suspected shabu valued at more than ₱20 million and arrested a high-value individual (HVI) during a joint anti-illegal drug operation on Saturday night, April 25, in Barangay Baliwasan.
The suspect was apprehended along Nanca Drive following a coordinated buy-bust operation led by the Zamboanga City Police Station 6 (Tetuan), with support from the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), Police Stations 7 (Sta. Maria) and 11, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-9), and the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company, including operatives from the 2nd Seaborne Company.
Authorities reported that approximately 2.8 to 3 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, were confiscated during the operation. The illegal drugs carried an estimated street value ranging from ₱19 million to over ₱20 million, underscoring the scale of the suspect’s alleged involvement in the narcotics trade.
The arrested individual, whose identity has yet to be publicly disclosed, is now in police custody and is set to face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Barangay Baliwasan officials, led by Barangay Captain Aimie Cabato, lauded the joint efforts of law enforcement agencies, describing the operation as a significant blow to illegal drug activities in the area.
“We commend the PNP, PDEA, and other operating units for this significant accomplishment. This highlights our collective dedication in combating illegal drug activities,” Cabato said in a statement.
Cabato was joined during the operation by Barangay Kagawad Cocoy Cabato and Kagawad Jeng Ismael, who also expressed their support for intensified anti-drug efforts.
Local officials emphasized that the successful arrest of a high-value target reflects the strengthened coordination between the police, anti-drug agencies, and the community. They also reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining partnerships with authorities to ensure peace, order, and public safety in Barangay Baliwasan.
The Philippine National Police and PDEA have repeatedly underscored their intensified campaign against illegal drugs, focusing on dismantling networks and apprehending high-value individuals involved in large-scale drug distribution.