Banga, South Cotabato – A buy-bust operation conducted by Police Regional Office (PRO) 12 personnel on November 27, 2024, led to the arrest of two high-value drug suspects and the confiscation of illegal drugs worth Php1,375,000.00.
The operation, carried out in Purok Mainuswagon, Barangay Benitez, Banga, was a coordinated effort involving the Banga Municipal Police Station, Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO), Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) 12, Regional Intelligence Division (RID) 12, and Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) 12, with support from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 12.
The arrested suspects were identified as:
- “King”, 42 years old, married, and classified as a high-value individual (HVI);
- “Dokay”, 53 years old, married, and both residents of Purok Pagkakaisa, Barangay Improgo, Banga, South Cotabato.
Seized during the operation were a large plastic sachet containing 205 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, or “shabu,” and a one-thousand-peso bill used as buy-bust money.
Barangay officials and a media representative from Sapul News Bulletin were present to witness the operation and ensure transparency.
The suspects and confiscated evidence were taken to the Banga Municipal Police Station for proper documentation. Cases for violations of Sections 5 (Sale, Trading, Delivery, and Distribution of Dangerous Drugs) and Section 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs and Paraphernalia) of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared for filing before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.
PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente, Officer-In-Charge of PRO 12, reiterated the police force’s commitment to eradicating illegal drugs:
“We will continue to carry out relentless operations targeting drug syndicates and criminals who endanger the lives of the people. This operation is just one of many steps we are taking to ensure that our communities remain free from the scourge of illegal drugs. We are determined to work with our law enforcement partners to hold drug offenders accountable and create safer, healthier neighborhoods for all.”
This successful operation highlights the unwavering dedication of law enforcement agencies to combat the illegal drug trade and uphold public safety in South Cotabato.