Major Drug Den Dismantled in Zamboanga Sibugay, Four High-Value Targets Apprehended
In a significant blow to illegal drug activities in the region, law enforcement authorities have successfully dismantled a drug den and arrested four high-value targets (HVTs) in Zamboanga Sibugay province. The operation, which took place on February 10, 2026, resulted in the seizure of approximately P170,000 worth of prohibited substances and related paraphernalia.
Details of the Anti-Drug Operation
According to Bryan Babang, III, the director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in the Zamboanga Peninsula, the suspects were identified using aliases: Joel, Edgar, Ramel, and Billy Joe. The arrests were made during a search warrant operation conducted in Purok Jupiter, Bangkerohan village, Ipil, which serves as the capital town of Zamboanga Sibugay province.
The confiscated items from the dismantled drug den included around 25 grams of shabu, carefully packed in 19 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets, with an estimated street value of P170,000. Additionally, various illegal drug paraphernalia were seized as part of the evidence collection process.
Legal Charges and Collaborative Efforts
Babang confirmed that the arrested suspects will face charges for violating multiple sections of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, specifically Sections 6, 7, 11, and 12. This legal action underscores the government's firm stance against drug-related crimes.
The successful operation was a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the PDEA-Zamboanga Sibugay office with crucial support from police and military operatives. This joint initiative highlights the coordinated approach taken by law enforcement agencies to combat the proliferation of illegal drugs in the area.
Recognition for Drug-Cleared Municipality in Basilan
In a related development, the PDEA in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has awarded the Balangay Seal of Excellence to the municipality of Akbar in Basilan province. This prestigious recognition acknowledges Akbar's outstanding implementation and sustainability of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP).
Edgar Jubay, PDEA-BARMM Director, noted that Akbar is the first municipality in the entire province of Basilan to receive this esteemed award. The municipality was officially declared drug-cleared on September 27, 2024, and has since actively pursued sustainability programs.
These efforts include ensuring the rehabilitation and reintegration of drug surrenderers, as well as intensifying advocacy campaigns within local communities. The municipal officials of Akbar, led by Mayor Alih Sali, proudly accepted the Balangay Seal of Excellence on Monday, February 9.
Mayor Sali, a former police officer, has pledged full support to continue the necessary programs and activities to maintain the drug-free status of the municipality, demonstrating a strong commitment to public safety and community well-being.
