Major Drug Bust in Mandaue City Nets P8.1 Million Worth of Suspected Shabu
In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, authorities in Mandaue City, Cebu, have successfully intercepted a large shipment of suspected shabu valued at over P8.1 million. The operation, which unfolded on Thursday afternoon, resulted in the arrest of a young suspect and the seizure of substantial evidence.
Coordinated Operation Leads to Arrest and Confiscation
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Mandaue City Team, in collaboration with the PNP Regional Intelligence Unit 7 and the Mandaue City Police Office, executed a meticulously planned buy-bust operation. This joint effort targeted an individual believed to be involved in the distribution of dangerous drugs within the region.
The sting took place at approximately 3:20 PM on January 29, 2026, within the parking lot of an establishment located in Barangay Guizo, Mandaue City. This strategic location was chosen based on intelligence gathered by the operatives, ensuring a swift and secure apprehension.
Suspect and Seized Items Identified
According to PDEA 7 Director Joel Plaza, the suspect has been identified as a 22-year-old male using the alias "Bernard", a resident of Barangay San Roque in Cebu City. He was the primary target of the operation, which aimed to disrupt the local drug trade network.
During the operation, law enforcement agents confiscated a total of 37 bundles containing what is believed to be shabu. The suspected narcotics weighed approximately 1,200 grams, equivalent to more than one kilogram. In addition to the drugs, authorities recovered the buy-bust money used in the sting, a cellphone, and various other pieces of evidence that will be crucial for the ongoing investigation and potential prosecution.
Impact and Ongoing Efforts
This seizure represents a major blow to illegal drug activities in the Central Visayas region, highlighting the continued vigilance and coordination among Philippine law enforcement agencies. The estimated street value of P8.1 million underscores the scale of the operation and the potential harm that has been averted through this successful intervention.
Authorities have emphasized that such operations are part of a broader strategy to combat drug proliferation and ensure public safety. The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to face charges related to the violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Further investigations are underway to uncover any possible connections to larger drug syndicates operating in the area.
