MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — Three individuals were arrested and approximately 200 grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated ₱1.36 million were seized during a joint police and military anti-drug operation in Barangay Matling, Malabang, Lanao del Sur, on October 26, 2026.
The operation was conducted by joint operatives of the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) and the Philippine Army as part of the government’s continuing campaign against illegal drugs in the Bangsamoro region.
Authorities identified the three arrested suspects only by their aliases, “Aki,” “Jahed,” and “Galy.” All three are of legal age.
The seized substance, believed to be methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu, was estimated to be worth ₱1,360,000 based on the valuation of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB). The suspected illegal drugs have been turned over to the PNP Regional Forensic Unit–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for laboratory examination and proper safekeeping.
Police, Army coordination leads to arrests
The anti-drug operation involved personnel from the Regional Drug Enforcement Unit (RDEU), PRO BAR Regional Intelligence Division (RID), Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), and Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO), in close coordination with the Philippine Army’s 64th Infantry Battalion.
PRO BAR Regional Director Police Brigadier General Christopher M. Abecia commended the participating units for their coordinated efforts, emphasizing the importance of sustained cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the military in addressing the illegal drug trade.
Abecia said the operation demonstrated PRO BAR’s commitment to intensifying anti-drug enforcement across the Bangsamoro region. He added that authorities would continue pursuing individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade to help protect communities from the harmful effects of illegal substances.
Criminal charges to be filed
The three suspects remain in PRO BAR custody pending the filing of appropriate criminal charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The case will proceed in accordance with applicable legal procedures, while the seized substance undergoes forensic examination to determine its composition.
The arrests and seizure represent another enforcement action against suspected illegal drug distribution in Lanao del Sur. However, the allegations against the suspects have yet to be established in court, and they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Abecia also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in reporting suspected illegal drug activities and other forms of criminality, stressing the role of community participation in efforts to maintain public safety.