Police Arrest Three Drug Suspects in Coordinated Western Visayas Operations
In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) successfully apprehended three drug suspects, including two high-value individuals (HVIs), and seized approximately 116 grams of shabu valued at P788,800. The operations were conducted through separate buy-busts in the provinces of Capiz and Iloilo, marking a notable achievement in the region's ongoing anti-drug campaign.
Timeline and Locations of the Anti-Drug Stings
The first operation took place at 7:45 p.m. on April 15, 2026, in Barangay Tacas, Pontevedra, Capiz. This was followed by a second sting at 10:24 a.m. on April 16, 2026, in Barangay Inaladan, Cabatuan, Iloilo. These coordinated efforts involved multiple police units working in tandem to ensure the success of the missions.
Commendation and Warning from Police Leadership
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the director of PRO 6, praised the operating units for their effective work. "This accomplishment reflects our firm commitment to intensify the campaign against illegal drugs and criminality," Ligan stated. "We assure the public that we will remain relentless in our efforts to ensure a safer and drug-free region for future generations."
He also issued a stern warning to those who might obstruct law enforcement efforts. "This accomplishment highlights our intensified efforts in combating the illegal drug trade in the region. We also remind the public that aiding or protecting criminals is a serious offense and will be dealt with accordingly. Let this serve as a warning that anyone who obstructs justice will face the full force of the law."
Details of the Pontevedra, Capiz Operation
In Pontevedra, Capiz, operatives from the Pontevedra Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO)-Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit and the Regional Intelligence Unit in Western Visayas (RIU 6)-Provincial Intelligence Team Capiz, arrested a suspect known as alias Alfie. The 55-year-old, who is jobless and a former drug surrenderer, was classified as a high-value individual.
Authorities confiscated the following items from Alfie:
- 52 grams of shabu worth P353,600
- Nine heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected illegal drugs
- Buy-bust money
- One caliber .38 revolver without a serial number
- Three live ammunition rounds
- Various non-drug items
The discovery of the firearm during the anti-drug operation led to additional charges being filed against the suspect. Alfie will face charges for violations of Section 5 (Illegal Sale of Dangerous Drugs) and Section 11 (Illegal Possession of Dangerous Drugs) under Republic Act (RA) 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This carries penalties of life imprisonment and fines ranging from P500,000 to P10,000,000. Additionally, he will be charged under RA 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Details of the Cabatuan, Iloilo Operation
In a separate operation in Cabatuan, Iloilo, personnel from the Cabatuan MPS arrested two suspects identified as alias Vert, a 47-year-old laborer, and alias Ron, aged 25. Both are residents of Barangay Inaladan, with Vert being designated as a high-value individual.
During this operation, police confiscated:
- Approximately 64 grams of shabu worth P435,200
- The drugs were contained in nine transparent plastic sachets
- Buy-bust money
- Other non-drug evidence
Vert will face charges for violations of Section 5 and Section 11 of RA 9165. Ron, however, will be charged with Obstruction of Justice and Direct Assault after allegedly attempting to protect Vert during the arrest, thereby interfering with law enforcement personnel in the performance of their duties.
Broader Implications of the Operations
Police officials emphasized that both operations are integral components of PRO 6's intensified anti-illegal drug campaign. This initiative specifically targets high-value individuals and aims to dismantle drug networks operating at the community level. The successful arrests and seizures underscore the region's proactive stance in combating drug-related activities and enhancing public safety.
The collaborative efforts among various police units in Western Visayas demonstrate a coordinated approach to law enforcement, ensuring that illegal drug trade activities are systematically addressed. These operations serve as a clear message to drug syndicates and individuals involved in narcotics distribution that law enforcement agencies are vigilant and committed to upholding justice.
