Authorities in Negros Island Region scored a major victory in the war against illegal drugs with a significant bust in Dumaguete City, resulting in a massive seizure and the arrest of a high-value target.
Major Drug Bust Nets P1.02 Million in Suspected Shabu
Operatives from the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) confiscated an estimated P1.020 million worth of a substance believed to be shabu during an anti-drug operation on January 2, 2026. The successful buy-bust took place in Purok 7, Diversion Road, Barangay Batinguel, Dumaguete City.
The operation led to the arrest of a 46-year-old individual known under the alias "Melsac", a resident of Purok Santan, Barangay Taclobo in the same city. Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, the chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, identified the suspect as a high-value drug personality.
Operation Based on Confidential Tip
Malong detailed that the Dumaguete City Police Station launched the operation after receiving crucial information from a confidential informant. The tip indicated that the subject was actively engaged in selling illegal drugs within the area.
Following validation procedures, police discovered that the suspect had a prior arrest record for the same illegal activity. "A transaction was carried out through the assistance of the confidential informant, which resulted in the arrest of the suspect," Malong added.
Evidence and Marked Money Recovered
Upon the suspect's arrest, law enforcement officers recovered several plastic sachets containing the suspected shabu. The illegal drugs had a total weight of 150 grams, with an estimated street value surpassing one million pesos. Authorities also successfully retrieved the marked money used in the undercover transaction.
Lieutenant Colonel Malong emphasized the importance of this operation. She stated that this significant seizure and the arrest of a high-value individual underscore the unwavering resolve of the PRO-NIR in relentlessly pursuing and dismantling illegal drug networks operating within the region.
"PRO-NIR remains steadfast in its commitment to protect communities, preserve public safety, and uphold the rule of law," Malong affirmed. She concluded by saying that the police force is dedicated to ensuring peace and security across the Negros Island Region through continuous, focused, and uncompromising anti-drug operations.
