Law enforcement agencies in Central Visayas scored significant victories against illegal drugs over the weekend, seizing nearly P1 million worth of suspected shabu and an unregistered firearm in coordinated operations across Bohol and Mandaue City.
High-Value Target Arrested in Bohol
Buenavista Municipal Police Station operatives captured a high-value target during a buy-bust operation at Asinan Port in Barangay Asinan on Sunday morning, November 16, 2025. The arrest occurred at approximately 4:55 AM, resulting in the apprehension of Rechie Seton Jr., a 30-year-old resident of Purok 5, Barangay Eastern Cabul-an in Buenavista.
Authorities confiscated from Seton approximately 51.25 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated standard drug price of P348,500. The operation also yielded a .45 caliber firearm without a serial number and three live ammunition rounds.
According to local police, the suspect had recently been identified as operating a shabu distribution network in their area. Investigators are now working to determine the source of his illegal drug supply.
Mandaue Drug Dispatcher Nabbed
In a separate operation, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-7 agents arrested a suspected drug dispatcher during a buy-bust operation in Mandaue City on Saturday evening, November 15, 2025. The arrest took place at 9:35 PM in Sityo Japan Shutter, Barangay Tipolo.
The apprehended individual was identified as Arcadio Soco Beceril Jr., also known as "Dondon," a 41-year-old resident of the same area. Operatives recovered from Beceril six packets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 80 grams with an estimated market value of P544,000.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigations
Both suspects are now facing charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. These sections pertain to the sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution, and transportation of dangerous drugs, as well as possession of dangerous drugs.
The successful operations demonstrate the continued vigilance of Philippine law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal drug trade across Central Visayas. Authorities have emphasized that investigations are ongoing to identify additional individuals involved in these drug distribution networks.
