Four Suspected Drug Pushers Arrested in Coordinated Cebu Operations
In a significant crackdown on illegal drug activities, law enforcement authorities in Cebu successfully apprehended four suspected drug pushers during separate buy-bust operations conducted on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The operations, which spanned different locations across the province, resulted in the seizure of substantial quantities of shabu and firearms, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat the drug trade in the region.
First Operation in San Fernando Leads to Multiple Arrests
The initial operation took place at 4:00 in the afternoon in Barangay Tabiogan, within the municipality of San Fernando. Police officers targeted and arrested three individuals suspected of involvement in drug pushing. The suspects have been identified as Jaye Lawrence Belgiga, aged 19, Dionesio Larayos, 57, and Maximo Lunday, 45, all of whom are residents of the aforementioned barangay.
During the apprehension, authorities confiscated 2.25 grams of shabu, with an estimated street value of P15,300. In addition to the illegal drugs, law enforcement also recovered a carbine rifle along with several rounds of ammunition, indicating potential links to more serious criminal activities beyond drug distribution.
Second Operation in Dalaguete Nets Repeat Offender
Later that same day, at approximately 11:30 in the evening, police conducted another buy-bust operation in Barangay Poblacion, located in the municipality of Dalaguete. This operation led to the arrest of Melvin Paolo Mercado, a 36-year-old single man residing in the area. The Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) of the local police force, under the leadership of Dalaguete Police Station Chief Major Vincent Zozobrado, spearheaded this coordinated effort.
Officers initiated the operation by purchasing a package of shabu from Mercado, valued at P500. Upon his arrest, a subsequent search revealed five additional packages of shabu and one medium-sized pack of the substance in his possession. The total weight of the confiscated drugs amounted to 1.25 grams, with an overall estimated value of P8,500.
Major Zozobrado noted that this arrest marks the third time Mercado has been apprehended on similar drug-related charges, underscoring a pattern of recidivism that authorities are actively addressing through intensified enforcement measures.
Implications and Ongoing Efforts
The successful operations in both San Fernando and Dalaguete demonstrate the commitment of Cebu police to disrupting drug networks and ensuring community safety. The seizures of not only illicit substances but also firearms suggest a multifaceted approach to tackling organized crime in the province.
As investigations continue, authorities emphasize the importance of community cooperation and vigilance in reporting suspicious activities. These arrests serve as a reminder of the persistent challenges posed by drug trafficking and the ongoing need for robust law enforcement strategies to protect public health and security in Cebu.
