In a significant victory against illegal drug activities, the personnel of Surigao del Sur Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (SDS PDEU), in collaboration with the Cagwait Municipal Police Station (Cagwait MPS) and the Surigao del Sur Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (SDS PDEA), conducted a successful anti-illegal drugs operation through a buy-bust on January 10, 2025. The joint operation led to the arrest of a high-value individual (HVI) suspect and the seizure of suspected shabu weighing 100 grams with an estimated street value of PHP 680,000.00.
The operation was spearheaded by the SDS PDEU under the leadership of C, PDEU, and the Cagwait MPS led by Police Major Arnel T. Banaken, Chief of Police, under the direct supervision of Police Colonel Harry B. Domingo, Provincial Director of Surigao del Sur.
Suspect Identified
The Provincial Director, PCOL Harry B. Domingo, identified the arrested suspect as a.k.a “Gaga,” a 31-year-old male, jobless, and a resident of Purok Avocado, Sitio Hinayhayan, Barangay Bacolod, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur. The suspect was apprehended during the buy-bust operation conducted at around 5:42 PM in Purok 6, Barangay Poblacion, Cagwait.
Items Recovered
During the operation, authorities seized the following items:
- Suspected shabu weighing 100 grams with an estimated street value of PHP 680,000.00.
- One (1) unit Ingram caliber .25 firearm with serial number 137928.
- One (1) magazine.
- Two (2) pieces of live ammunition.
- Assorted drug paraphernalia.
The search, inventory, and marking of the confiscated items were conducted in the presence of witnesses, including members of the media, a Barangay Councilor from Barangay Poblacion, and a representative from the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Legal Proceedings and Commitment
The suspect was informed of his constitutional rights in accordance with the Miranda Warning and the Anti-Torture Act during the arrest. He is currently under the custody of the Cagwait Municipal Police Station, along with all confiscated items, for proper disposition.
PCOL Harry B. Domingo expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the units involved, stating, “The swift and tactical response from our units has not only disrupted local supply chains, potentially saving countless lives, but has also contributed to the preservation of community welfare. With public cooperation, we remain steadfast in our mission to enhance safety and security within our jurisdiction.”
Call for Public Cooperation
The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) has reaffirmed its commitment to utilizing effective strategies in combating illegal drug activities. The agency urges the public to continuously support the government’s campaign against all forms of criminality to achieve a secure and peaceful Surigao del Sur.
This successful operation underscores the importance of unity and vigilance in addressing the persistent challenges posed by illegal drugs in the region.