Major Drug Bust in Iloilo City Nets P816,000 Worth of Suspected Shabu
In a significant blow to illegal drug activities in Western Visayas, police operatives successfully arrested a high-value individual and seized a substantial quantity of suspected shabu during a meticulously planned buy-bust operation in Iloilo City. The operation, which took place on the evening of February 4, 2026, resulted in the confiscation of approximately 120 grams of the illicit substance, with an estimated street value of P816,000.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
The suspect, identified only by the alias Juniel, is a 32-year-old construction worker who was temporarily residing in the Molo District of Iloilo City. Authorities classified him as a high-value individual in the regional drug trade, underscoring the importance of this arrest. The operation was conducted at around 8:30 p.m. in Zone 3, Barangay San Juan, Molo District, where police apprehended Juniel following a controlled transaction.
Seized from the suspect were a total of 18 transparent plastic sachets containing the suspected shabu. This included 16 heat-sealed sachets and two that were knot-tied, along with buy-bust money and several non-drug items. The evidence was carefully documented and presented by the Iloilo City Police Office as part of their ongoing efforts to combat narcotics distribution in the area.
Coordinated Police Effort and Official Statement
The successful operation was a result of coordinated efforts among multiple specialized units. Operatives from the Iloilo City Police Office City Drug Enforcement Unit led the buy-bust, with support from the Icpo Special Weapons and Tactics Team, Iloilo City Police Station 4 Station Drug Enforcement Team, and the Regional Intelligence Unit in Western Visayas. This multi-agency approach highlights the comprehensive strategy employed by law enforcement to target high-level drug personalities.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), commended the operatives for their diligence. He emphasized that this seizure is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Philippine National Police to safeguard communities from the detrimental effects of illegal drugs. General Ligan also called for continued public cooperation, urging citizens to report suspicious activities and support anti-drug initiatives to foster a safer, drug-free society.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Campaign
Following the arrest, the suspect is currently under police custody and is set to face serious charges. Authorities have indicated that he will be prosecuted 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, and possession of dangerous drugs, which could result in severe penalties upon conviction.
This operation is part of the intensified anti-illegal drug campaign spearheaded by the Philippine National Police in the Western Visayas region. It reflects a broader national effort to dismantle drug networks and reduce the supply of illicit substances across the Philippines. The Iloilo City Police Office remains vigilant, with plans to continue such targeted operations to maintain peace and order in the community.
