DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte — Four individuals, including three members of the same family, were arrested after authorities dismantled what they described as a confirmed drug den during a joint buy-bust and search operation in Barangay Baka, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Sunday evening, August 23, 2026.
The operation, led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM), was conducted with the support of the 1st Mechanized Infantry (Lakan) Battalion of the Philippine Army and other law enforcement personnel.
The arrested suspects were identified only by their aliases as Manding, Bai, Samir, and Muhajirin.
Authorities said the operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 21 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P142,800. A caliber .45 pistol, ammunition, a magazine, assorted drug paraphernalia, and cash believed to include the buy-bust money were also recovered.
The operation was carried out at about 5 p.m. as personnel of the 14th Mechanized Infantry Company provided area security while PDEA-BARMM operatives conducted the search and law enforcement operation at a residence allegedly being used for illegal drug activities.
According to Lt. Col. William G. Sabado, commanding officer of the 1st Mechanized Infantry (Lakan) Battalion, the Army’s role included securing the surrounding area while the anti-drug operation was being conducted.
The operation reportedly led to the dismantling of the suspected drug den and the arrest of the four individuals.
The seizure of the firearm also added another security dimension to the operation, as authorities recovered a .45-caliber pistol along with ammunition and other non-drug evidence.
Brig. Gen. Ricky P. Bunayog, acting commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, commended the participating units and emphasized the importance of coordinated law enforcement operations in addressing illegal drugs and other security threats in the province.
“Ang matagumpay na operasyong ito ay patunay ng kahalagahan ng mahigpit na koordinasyon at pagtutulungan ng ating mga kasamahan sa law enforcement,” Bunayog said.
He added that the military would continue supporting operations aimed at preventing the spread of illegal drugs and other activities that threaten the security of communities.
The four suspects and the confiscated evidence have been placed under the custody of PDEA-BARMM for proper disposition. Authorities are preparing the appropriate charges against those arrested in connection with the operation.
The 6ID said it would continue strengthening coordination with the Philippine National Police, PDEA-BARMM, and other law enforcement agencies in responding to threats to peace and security in Maguindanao del Norte.
Authorities have increasingly treated illegal drugs not only as a public safety and criminal justice concern but also as a potential security issue, particularly where illegal drug activities could provide financial resources to armed or terrorist groups.
By targeting suspected drug networks and their sources of financing, law enforcement agencies aim to disrupt the movement of illegal funds while protecting communities from the broader security risks associated with the illegal drug trade.
The latest operation underscores the continuing joint efforts of military and civilian law enforcement units in Maguindanao del Norte, where sustained intelligence-sharing, coordinated operations, and community security measures remain central to addressing illegal drugs and other criminal activities.