Authorities in Davao City made significant strides in the war against illegal drugs and loose firearms this week, culminating in the confiscation of over ₱1.4 million worth of narcotics and a violent encounter that left a police officer wounded.
Major Drug Haul in Separate Barangay Operations
On the afternoon of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, operatives conducted two simultaneous anti-drug operations in different parts of the city. The first strike occurred at 2:27 p.m. in Purok 8, Minterbro, Barangay Ilang. This operation led to the arrest of four individuals and the recovery of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of ₱408,000.
Less than two hours later, at 3:37 p.m. in Purok 27, Padaman Riverside, Barangay Maa, police apprehended two more suspects. The contraband seized here included suspected marijuana valued at ₱120,000 and liquid marijuana worth a staggering ₱925,000.
The combined value of the illegal substances seized from these two successful missions totaled ₱1,453,000. All six suspects are now detained and will face charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police Officer Shot During Bunawan Firefight
In a related but separate incident the night before, on Monday, December 29, a police officer was injured during a high-risk service of a search warrant in Purok 3, Salooban, Bunawan. The operation, spearheaded by the Bunawan Police Station with support from other Davao City Police Office (DCPO) units, targeted a suspect known as alias “Rey-Rey”.
During the confrontation, Patrolman Geordy Fiel of the Special Action Force (SAF) sustained a gunshot wound to his foot. Despite the injury, the operation resulted in the arrest of six suspects:
- Alias “Rizalde”
- Alias “Diosdao”
- Alias “Reynante”
- Alias “Marknel”
- Alias “Philip”
- Alias “Jay-Ar”
Authorities recovered an arsenal of four firearms, including a .22 caliber pistol, a 12-gauge shotgun, a 9mm UZI, and a .357 revolver. They also reported that alias “Rey-Rey” attempted to throw a grenade, which fortunately failed to explode.
Charges Filed, Investigation Ongoing
The search warrant was issued by Executive Judge Rowena M. Apao-Adlawan of the 11th Judicial Region in Davao City for violations of RA 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. The suspects now face additional charges for violations of RA 9516 (illegal possession of explosives) as well as frustrated and attempted murder.
The Bunawan operation was conducted with transparency, witnessed by representatives from the media, the National Prosecution Service, and a barangay kagawad. Police officials have commended the operatives for their bravery and assured the public that investigations into all incidents are continuing.
Authorities are urging Davaoeños to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activities or individuals involved in illegal drugs and firearms to their local police stations or through hotlines. These operations underscore the ongoing commitment to law enforcement and community safety in Davao City.
