Major Drug Bust in Iloilo Nets Eight Suspects and P2.31 Million Worth of Shabu
In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, police in Iloilo City conducted two coordinated buy-bust operations on March 4, 2026, resulting in the arrest of eight drug suspects and the seizure of approximately 340 grams of suspected shabu valued at P2.31 million. The operations, which targeted high-value individuals, underscore ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking in Western Visayas.
First Operation in Mandurriao District
The initial operation unfolded at 1:15 p.m. in Zone 6, Barangay Bakhaw, Mandurriao District. Police apprehended six individuals who were allegedly engaged in a pot session inside the residence of the primary target, identified as Luigi, aged 33. The other suspects taken into custody include Cindy, 42; Jolien, 35; Noy, 31; Jo, 41; and Oca, 52.
During the raid, authorities recovered a total of thirteen transparent plastic sachets—nine heat-sealed and four knot-tied—containing 140 grams of suspected shabu. Based on standard drug pricing, this haul is estimated to be worth P952,000.
Second Operation in Molo District
Later that evening, at 9:45 p.m., police executed a second buy-bust operation in Zone 3B, Barangay Calumpang, Molo District. This led to the arrest of two high-value individuals: Sheila, 37, and Tomboy, 33. Notably, Sheila is an ex-convict previously convicted for violations under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
From this operation, law enforcement confiscated nine heat-sealed sachets and two knot-tied transparent plastic bags, which contained 200 grams of suspected shabu. The estimated street value of this seizure is P1,360,000.
Coordinated Police Efforts and Legal Proceedings
The operations were spearheaded by the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU), with crucial support from the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU), the Philippine Drug Enforcement Group Special Operations Unit 6, and Iloilo City Police Station 4 under the Iloilo City Police Office (Icpo). This multi-agency collaboration highlights the integrated approach to drug enforcement in the region.
All eight arrested individuals are currently in police custody as authorities prepare to file charges against them for violations of RA 9165. The cases are being meticulously assembled to ensure a strong legal foundation for prosecution.
Statement from Police Leadership
Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), emphasized the significance of these operations. "These successful operations underscore our relentless commitment to dismantling drug networks operating in Western Visayas," Ligan stated. "The arrest of high-value individuals and their cohorts sends a strong message that we will not allow illegal drugs to destroy our communities. We commend our operatives for their dedication and assure the public that PRO 6 will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations in close coordination with our partner units and the community."
The operations reflect a continued and vigorous campaign against illegal drugs, aiming to disrupt supply chains and hold perpetrators accountable through rigorous law enforcement and community engagement.
