Camp Gallego, Tubod, Lanao del Norte — In a coordinated effort to combat illegal drug activities, law enforcement agencies conducted two successful buy-bust operations on December 21, 2024, in Baloi, Lanao del Norte. These operations resulted in the apprehension of two male suspects and the confiscation of illegal substances and related items.
First Operation: Purok-6, Maria Cristina, Baloi
A composite team from PDEU, LDNPPO, PIU, LDNPPO, and Baloi MPS executed a buy-bust operation in Purok-6, Maria Cristina, Baloi, leading to the arrest of a 36-year-old male suspect. The suspect, a resident of 1st East, Rosario Heights, Tubod, Iligan City, was on the DI Watchlist and found in possession of substances believed to be shabu.
An undercover officer acting as a poseur buyer successfully purchased one rectangular heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance, suspected to be shabu, worth PHP 500. A subsequent search revealed additional items:
- One square, large heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing approximately 25 grams of shabu with an estimated value of PHP 170,000.
- A leather pouch (black/white/brown).
- PHP 500 marked buy-bust money (serial number FJ960453).
- A pack of San Marino white cigarettes.
- A green disposable lighter.
- A PHP 10 coin.
- PHP 450 in cash of varying denominations.
The suspect and the confiscated items were brought to Kolambugan MPS for documentation. Charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165 are being prepared.
Second Operation: Balik-Bayan, West Poblacion, Baloi
In a separate operation conducted by personnel from Baloi MPS, authorities arrested a 40-year-old male suspect, jobless and married, residing in West Poblacion, Baloi. The operation’s poseur buyer acquired a small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing suspected shabu, weighing approximately 0.20 grams and valued at PHP 1,360.
During a body search at the scene, officers confiscated:
- A San Marino white-and-blue cigarette pack containing one cigarette.
- A Huawei Android cellphone (violet).
- An orange disposable lighter.
- A black leather pouch.
- PHP 300 in cash believed to be drug proceeds.
- A PHP 5 coin.
- A green flashlight case.
- PHP 500 marked buy-bust money.
The operation was conducted in an orderly manner with the presence of media representatives and barangay officials. The suspect and seized evidence were brought to Baloi MPS for proper documentation and disposition.
Provincial Director’s Statement
PCOL Roy A. Magsalay, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO), commended the teams involved for their exemplary performance and unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal drugs in the community.
“This operation underscores the relentless commitment of LDN PPO in combating the proliferation of illegal drugs in the community. We assure the public that we will continue to intensify our efforts to eradicate illegal drug activities and bring offenders to justice. Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Ang Gusto ng Pulis, Ligtas Ka!” he stated.
Both operations highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies in Lanao del Norte to ensure a safer and drug-free province.