In a significant anti-narcotics operation, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has uncovered a suspected clandestine drug laboratory in Caloocan City, leading to the seizure of chemical precursors and sophisticated laboratory equipment valued at over P10 million. The police announced this development on Saturday, January 24, 2025, highlighting a major blow to illegal drug manufacturing activities in the region.
Operation Details and Seized Items
The raid was executed at 8:16 a.m. on January 24, 2026, by a coordinated team from the Caloocan City Police Station, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, and the Drug Enforcement Unit (DDEU). Authorities targeted a location where illegal drug production was suspected, though the primary suspect managed to evade capture and remains at large. This individual is now facing serious charges for violating Section 8 of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which specifically penalizes the manufacture of dangerous drugs and controlled precursors.
Valuable Chemical Precursors and Equipment
During the operation, police confiscated two containers containing liquid chemical substances, believed to be phenylacetone, with a combined volume of approximately 20 liters. The estimated street value of these chemicals alone exceeds P10 million, underscoring the scale of the illicit operation. In addition to the chemicals, law enforcement officers recovered a range of laboratory-grade equipment, including glass flasks, separatory funnels, electric heating mantles, and a stainless steel heating and mixing base unit. These items are allegedly used in the production of illegal drugs, pointing to a well-equipped and potentially high-output manufacturing setup.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Strategy
Authorities have emphasized that further investigation is currently underway to identify additional suspects and locate the primary target of the operation. The PNP acting chief, Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., commended the operating units for their successful execution of the raid. He attributed this achievement to the police force's Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) strategy, which aims to strengthen focused and intelligence-driven law enforcement efforts across the country.
Commitment to Community Safety
The Philippine National Police has reiterated its unwavering commitment to sustaining anti-illegal drug operations as a core component of its broader campaign to improve community safety nationwide. This operation in Caloocan City serves as a testament to the PNP's ongoing efforts to dismantle drug networks and prevent the proliferation of dangerous substances in Philippine communities. As the investigation progresses, authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice and public security.
