SULTAN KUDARAT, Maguindanao del Norte — Two alleged drug personalities, both classified as high-value individuals (HVI), were arrested in a late-night buy-bust operation conducted by joint anti-drug operatives on May 2, authorities confirmed.
The operation, carried out at around 8:40 p.m. in Barangay Alamada, was led by the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG SOU BAR 15) in coordination with the Sultan Kudarat Municipal Police Station (SKMPS) and the Provincial Mobile Force Company of Maguindanao del Norte (PMFC MDN).
Identified by team leader Police Lieutenant Joey Dela Cruz, the suspects were Amsah Makalunas Bedo, 36, a resident of Barangay Kilalan in Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte, and Troll Lamalan Utto, 32, of Palongonan, Midsayap, North Cotabato.
Authorities said the suspects were caught in possession of six jumbo-sized plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, with an estimated total weight of half a kilogram. The seized illegal drugs were valued at approximately ₱3.4 million.
The suspects were immediately taken into custody and are currently detained at the lock-up facility of SKMPS. Charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared against them.
In initial statements following their arrest, the suspects claimed they were merely instructed to facilitate the drug transaction in exchange for ₱5,000. They expressed remorse over their involvement, saying they regret their actions and are willing to change if given another chance.
Despite their claims, authorities emphasized that the operation is part of the intensified campaign against illegal drugs in the region, particularly targeting high-value individuals believed to be involved in large-scale drug distribution networks.
Police officials reiterated their commitment to sustaining aggressive anti-drug operations, warning that those engaged in the illegal drug trade will face the full force of the law.