PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — A 27-year-old man identified only by the alias “Rold” was arrested after police operatives seized approximately 62 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱421,600, during a buy-bust operation in Purok Sampaguita, Barangay Napolan, Pagadian City, at around 3:50 p.m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
The operation was led by the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PNP DEG), through its Special Operations Unit 9 (SOU9), in coordination with the Pagadian City Police Station and with the coordination of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 9 (PDEA-9).
Authorities identified the arrested individual as a 27-year-old single, unemployed man and resident of Nasareth, Buenavista, Pagadian City. His identity was withheld in the initial information provided by authorities, who referred to him by his alias.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel reportedly recovered one packet containing approximately 62 grams of suspected shabu. The confiscated substance was valued at ₱421,600, according to the information provided.
Also recovered were ₱100,000 in cash reportedly used as buy-bust money, a black belt bag, and a power bank. Authorities have yet to provide additional details on the seized items or the circumstances surrounding the alleged drug transaction.
Following his arrest, the suspect was brought to the Pagadian City Police Station for proper documentation and processing, as authorities prepare the appropriate charges against him.
Meanwhile, the confiscated items were turned over to the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office for proper documentation and disposition.
The arrest forms part of law enforcement efforts to combat the illegal drug trade in Pagadian City and other parts of Zamboanga del Sur. However, the suspect’s alleged involvement in the drug transaction remains subject to the legal process, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding the operation or the specific charges to be filed against the suspect.