Ride-Hailing Driver, Accomplice Arrested in Liloan Sting Operation
Police in Liloan, Cebu, have apprehended a ride-hailing driver and an alleged accomplice following a successful buy-bust operation. The arrest occurred on the evening of Saturday, December 27, 2025, in Purok Upo, Sitio Cogon, Barangay Catarman.
The primary suspect, identified under the alias Elmer, 42, was taken into custody along with his cohort, known as Rico, 50. Elmer, a native of Lapu-Lapu City, was temporarily residing in the area where the operation took place. Rico is a resident of the same purok but originally hails from Talisay City.
Significant Drug Haul and Prior Convictions
Operatives from the Liloan Police Station's Municipal Drug Enforcement Unit (MDEU) led the sting. The operation resulted in the confiscation of 5.25 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of Philippine Pesos 35,700.
Intelligence reports had previously tagged Elmer as a drug peddler in the community. According to police, he was capable of distributing between eight to ten grams of illegal substances per week.
Both suspects are no strangers to drug charges. Records show Elmer was previously arrested on December 3, 2015, for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. He was released from custody on December 22, 2022.
Similarly, Rico faced arrest for the same charges in 2015 and was released in 2021.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Campaign
The two individuals are currently detained at the Liloan Police Station. They are set to face formal complaints for the sale and possession of illegal drugs.
This latest operation underscores the continued efforts of local police units to combat the drug trade, even targeting individuals who use legitimate occupations as cover for illicit activities. The arrest of suspects with prior convictions also highlights the challenges of rehabilitation and recidivism within the justice system.
