Police in Lanao del Norte arrested two suspects, including a high-value individual (HVI), and confiscated approximately P775,200 worth of shabu in two separate buy-bust operations conducted on Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, 2026, officials confirmed on Sunday, July 12.
Arrest of High-Value Individual in Iligan City
The first operation targeted alias Lando, 46, a resident of Iligan City. Police Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, director of the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao, said Lando was arrested in a buy-bust on Saturday, July 11, in Saray village, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte.
Seized from Lando were 110 grams of shabu valued at P748,000, buy-bust money, a wallet, and a coin pouch believed to have been used in the transaction. Abrahano stated that Lando is currently detained at Iligan City Police Station 5 and will face charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Abrahano emphasized the police's commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs, particularly targeting HVIs who continue to distribute illicit substances within communities. He urged the public to support anti-illegal drug efforts by promptly reporting suspicious activities to help keep Northern Mindanao safe and peaceful.
Second Suspect Arrested in Tubod
In a separate operation, alias Takyo, 32, of Lala, Lanao del Norte, was arrested around 9:40 p.m. on Friday, July 10, in Purok 6, Malingao village, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. Police Colonel Leo Sua, Lanao del Norte police director, said authorities seized from Takyo four grams of shabu packed in three heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets worth P27,200.
Also confiscated were a coin purse, a disposable lighter, a mobile phone, a sling bag, and buy-bust money consisting of four P100 bills, two P200 bills, and one P500 bill. Sua stated, "We will continue to work closely with our partner agencies and the community to ensure that those engaged in the illegal drug trade are brought to justice."
Legal Actions and Community Support
Both suspects will be charged with violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The police operations highlight the ongoing efforts to curb illegal drug activities in the region, with authorities relying on community cooperation to dismantle drug networks.
