Authorities in Western Visayas have scored significant victories in the war against illegal drugs with the arrest of five individuals and the confiscation of more than half a kilogram of suspected shabu during coordinated operations in Iloilo province.
Major Drug Busts Across Two Municipalities
The successful anti-drug operations were conducted on November 20 and 21, 2025 in the municipalities of Barotac Nuevo and Oton. Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of Police Regional Office 6 (PRO 6), confirmed that these operations targeted the continued presence of illegal substances in the region.
"I commend the exemplary dedication and swift action of our operating unit," Ligan stated. "This accomplishment reflects the unwavering commitment of PRO 6 to intensify our anti-illegal drug campaign and protect our communities from the harm brought by these substances."
Barotac Nuevo Operation Nets Four Suspects
The first operation unfolded at approximately 8:44 p.m. on November 20, 2025 in Barangay Acuit, Barotac Nuevo. The Barotac Nuevo Municipal Police Station conducted a buy-bust that led to the apprehension of four suspects identified through their aliases: Gil (42), Jon (37), John (19), and Arnel (17).
Law enforcement agents recovered substantial evidence from the scene, including:
- Approximately 220 grams of suspected shabu
- 15 heat-sealed sachets and two knot-tied large sachets of the suspected illegal drug
- A homemade M14 rifle and three cartridges
- Two weighing scales and buy-bust money
- Various drug paraphernalia
All suspects, who are residents of Barotac Nuevo, now face charges for violations of Sections 5, 11, and 26 of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Additional charges under RA 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) will be filed against Jon, who was found in possession of the firearm.
High-Value Target Captured in Oton
In a separate follow-up operation at around 1:25 a.m. on November 21, 2025, a collaborative effort between multiple police units resulted in the arrest of a high-value individual (HVI) in Barangay San Nicolas, Oton.
The suspect, identified as alias Edward (43, single, jobless) from Barangay Ilawud Poblacion in Barotac Nuevo, was taken into custody after selling a sachet of suspected shabu to an undercover police officer.
Authorities seized significant evidence from Edward, including:
- Approximately 350 grams of suspected shabu
- Nine transparent sachets and six knot-tied plastic bags containing the suspected illegal substance
- Buy-bust money and assorted drug paraphernalia
Police Brigadier General Ligan praised the operating teams, noting that "This successful operation is a testament to our strengthened coordination, intelligence work, and unwavering resolve to keep Western Visayas safe. We will continue to pursue drug personalities to protect our communities."
Ongoing Campaign Against Illegal Drugs
The high-value individual is currently detained and will be charged with violations of Sections 5 and 11 of RA 9165. PRO 6 has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the campaign against illegal drugs, emphasizing that their operations remain "guided by professionalism, integrity, and service to the people of Western Visayas."
General Ligan also appealed to the public for continued support and vigilance, stating, "I urge the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting our efforts, as together we strengthen our stand for a safer, more peaceful, and drug-free Western Visayas."
The combined seizures from both operations total approximately 570 grams of suspected shabu, representing a significant blow to illegal drug distribution networks operating in the region.
