ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — A 68-year-old woman, identified by authorities as a high-value target (HVT), was arrested during an anti-illegal drug operation in Barangay Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City, after law enforcement personnel seized approximately one kilogram of suspected shabu valued at more than ₱7.4 million.
The operation was conducted on Thursday evening, October 29, 2026, by operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) National Special Enforcement Team (NSET) ZAMBASULTA, in coordination with the 904th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9 (RMFB-9) and other law enforcement units.
Authorities reportedly recovered 25 sachets containing suspected shabu, with an estimated total weight of approximately one kilogram and a standard drug value exceeding ₱7.4 million.
The 68-year-old suspect was immediately taken into custody following the operation. Authorities identified her as a high-value target, indicating that she was among the individuals being pursued in connection with the government’s anti-drug campaign.
The seized substances were secured for proper documentation and laboratory examination, while the arrested woman is expected to face appropriate charges under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, subject to the findings of the investigation and the filing of formal complaints.
The operation underscores the continuing efforts of PDEA and police units to dismantle suspected illegal drug distribution activities in Zamboanga City and other parts of the Zamboanga Peninsula.
However, authorities have yet to publicly disclose further details about the suspect’s alleged involvement, the possible source of the seized drugs, or whether the operation is connected to a wider distribution network.
The arrest and seizure represent a significant drug recovery in terms of estimated street value, although the full circumstances surrounding the case remain subject to further investigation.
The suspect remains entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court.