SURIGAO DEL SUR — A suspected drug peddler was arrested after law enforcement authorities seized around 20 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated standard value of ₱136,000 during a joint anti-illegal drug operation in Barangay Dughan on September 19.
The operation involved personnel from the PDEA Regional Office XIII Surigao del Sur Provincial Office, PNP Regional Intelligence Division 13, Barobo Municipal Police Station, and the Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, highlighting the continuing inter-agency effort to suppress the distribution of illegal drugs in the province.
Authorities said the operation resulted in the recovery of four heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing a white crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu. The suspected illegal drug had an aggregate weight of approximately 20 grams and an estimated standard value of ₱136,000.
Aside from the suspected shabu, operatives also recovered the buy-bust money, a blue disposable lighter, an improvised glass pipe, a brown envelope, an Infinix 10 Android mobile phone, and a Honda XRM 125 motorcycle with its key.
The arrest forms part of the continuing campaign of authorities against the illegal drug trade, with law enforcement agencies coordinating intelligence, police operations and enforcement efforts to identify and apprehend individuals allegedly involved in the sale and distribution of dangerous drugs.
The suspect is facing a complaint for Sale of Dangerous Drugs, in violation of Section 5, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended by Republic Act No. 10640.
PDEA Regional Office XIII Director Laurefel P. Gabales credited the successful operation to the cooperation and coordination among the participating law enforcement units.
“This successful operation is a product of teamwork, coordination, and shared commitment among our law enforcement agencies,” Gabales said, commending the participating units for their efforts to protect communities from the harmful effects of illegal drugs.
Gabales also urged residents to remain vigilant and to report information concerning suspected illegal drug activities through proper and authorized channels.
PDEA RO XIII emphasized that sustained cooperation among law enforcement agencies, local government units, witnesses, and community members remains crucial in disrupting illegal drug operations.
Authorities said continued community participation and timely reporting can help law enforcement identify illegal drug activities and prevent these from gaining a stronger foothold in local communities.
The seized items will be subjected to the appropriate documentation and legal procedures as the case against the arrested suspect progresses.