KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — An active-duty policewoman and an alleged drug pusher were arrested during a buy-bust operation conducted by law enforcement authorities in Barangay San Isidro, Koronadal City, on Tuesday afternoon, June 16, highlighting the government’s continuing campaign against illegal drugs—even within the ranks of law enforcement.
The operation was carried out at around 4:49 p.m. in Purok Pagkakaisa Lot C, Barangay San Isidro, by anti-drug operatives targeting a suspected drug dealer identified only by the alias “Harry,” 27, a resident of the area and reportedly listed as a High-Value Individual (HVI) in the illegal drug trade.
Also arrested during the operation was Police Corporal Jane Jance, 34, an active member of the Koronadal City Police Station who likewise resides in the same community.
According to authorities, “Harry” was the primary target of the operation following intelligence reports linking him to the sale of illegal drugs in the city. During the transaction, operatives were able to successfully purchase a sachet of suspected shabu from the suspect.
However, the suspect allegedly became suspicious of the person he was transacting with and suddenly attempted to flee into his residence while shouting, “May pulis!” in an apparent effort to warn others of the ongoing operation. Police officers immediately pursued and apprehended him.
During the operation, authorities also noticed the presence of the policewoman in the vicinity. Investigators said she allegedly attempted to flee after realizing that a police operation was underway. Operatives chased and arrested her, and she was reportedly found in possession of illegal drugs.
Seized from the suspects were approximately five grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P34,000, a medium-sized heat-sealed plastic sachet containing suspected shabu, and a P500 bill used as marked money in the buy-bust transaction.
The confiscated evidence has been turned over for proper documentation and laboratory examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the extent of the policewoman’s alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade, but her arrest has drawn attention due to her status as an active member of the Philippine National Police.
The two suspects are currently detained at the custodial facility of the Koronadal City Police Station while authorities prepare charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police officials reiterated that the anti-illegal drug campaign remains relentless and that no individual, regardless of position or profession, is exempt from the law.
The arrest of an active police officer in connection with illegal drugs underscores the PNP’s commitment to internal cleansing and accountability within its ranks while intensifying efforts to dismantle drug networks operating in local communities.