In a significant law enforcement action in Zamboanga del Norte, authorities have apprehended a high-value individual linked to illegal drug activities. The operation, conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in the Zamboanga Peninsula region, resulted in the arrest of a suspect known as alias Mark, aged 40 and a resident of Dipolog City, the provincial capital.
Details of the Anti-Drug Operation
The arrest occurred during a meticulously planned buy-bust operation on Thursday, January 22, around 6 p.m. The targeted location was Purok Green Leaves in Sta. Filomena village, Dipolog City. According to PDEA officials, the suspect was included in the regional target list of drug personalities, highlighting his alleged involvement in the local narcotics trade.
Evidence Seized During the Raid
During the operation, law enforcement agents confiscated substantial evidence from the suspect. The items seized include:
- Approximately 10 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P68,000
- Buy-bust money used in the undercover transaction
- A knife, potentially for personal protection or other illicit purposes
- A mobile phone, which may contain crucial communication data related to drug dealings
Legal Charges and Custody
The suspect now faces serious legal consequences for his alleged actions. PDEA has indicated that he will be charged with violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, specifically:
- Section 5: Sale of dangerous drugs
- Section 11: Possession of dangerous drugs
Following the arrest, the individual was placed under the custody of the PDEA-Zamboanga del Norte provincial office, where he will await further legal proceedings. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Philippine authorities to combat drug-related crimes in the region, particularly targeting individuals on watchlists who are suspected of playing key roles in the illegal drug network.
