TUPI, South Cotabato — A high-value individual (HVI) suspected of involvement in illegal drug activities was apprehended in a buy-bust operation conducted by joint law enforcement agencies in Purok 6, Barangay Poblacion, Tupi, South Cotabato, on December 1, 2024.
The suspect, identified as alias “Panoy,” a 44-year-old resident of Sitio Guadalupe, Barangay Carpenter, Koronadal City, was arrested following the coordinated efforts of the Tupi Municipal Police Station (MPS), South Cotabato Police Intelligence Unit (SCPIU), South Cotabato Police Drug Enforcement Unit (SCPDEU), and the 1205th Mobile Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12 (RMFB 12), in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 12.
Authorities confiscated 20 sachets of suspected shabu, weighing a total of 52 grams and valued at Php 353,600.00 based on the National Standard Drug Price. Other recovered items included a Colt MK IV ’80 .45 caliber pistol with serial number 123517, three rounds of ammunition, and a Honda XRM 125 motorcycle.
Alias “Panoy” is set to face charges for violating Sections 5 (Sale of Dangerous Drugs) and 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs), Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The suspect is currently under the custody of Tupi MPS, while the confiscated items have been submitted to the South Cotabato Provincial Forensic Unit for examination.
PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente, Officer-In-Charge of Police Regional Office 12, lauded the successful operation, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of law enforcement in combating illegal drugs in SOCCSKSARGEN.
“The arrest of this high-value individual and the seizure of these dangerous substances are clear indicators of our resolute efforts. We will continue to intensify our operations and bring perpetrators to justice,” PBGEN Ardiente stated.
The operation is part of the Police Regional Office 12’s ongoing campaign against the proliferation of illegal drugs, reflecting its determination to secure communities across the region.