Major Drug Bust in Capiz: Police Nab High-Value Suspect with P408,000 Worth of Shabu
In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, operatives from the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) successfully arrested a high-value individual (HVI) and seized approximately 60 grams of shabu valued at P408,000. The operation took place in Barangay Lawaan, Roxas City, Capiz, on the afternoon of February 25, 2026, marking a critical victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Western Visayas.
Details of the Operation and Arrest
The buy-bust was conducted at 3:58 p.m. by the CPPO Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Capiz Provincial Office. Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), identified the suspect as alias Papanort, a 37-year-old resident of President Roxas, Capiz. Authorities confirmed that the individual was listed as a high-value target, underscoring the importance of this arrest in disrupting local drug networks.
During the operation, law enforcement recovered 12 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing the illegal substance, along with buy-bust money and several non-drug items. The confiscated shabu weighed more or less 60 grams, with an estimated street value of P408,000 based on standard drug pricing. The suspect is currently under police custody awaiting proper disposition and will face charges for violations of Republic Act 9165, specifically Section 5 (sale of dangerous drugs) and Section 11 (possession of dangerous drugs).
Official Statement and Broader Implications
In a statement following the arrest, Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan emphasized the relentless efforts of law enforcement to combat drug peddling in the region. "The arrest of the high-value individual sends a clear message that we remain relentless in targeting those who continue to peddle illegal substances in our communities," Ligan said. "We will intensify our operations and ensure that those involved in the drug trade are held accountable under the law." This operation highlights the proactive measures being taken by police to address drug-related crimes and protect public safety.
The successful bust in Roxas City is part of a broader strategy by PRO 6 to clamp down on high-value targets and reduce the supply of illegal drugs in Western Visayas. By collaborating with PDEA, the police aim to enhance the effectiveness of their anti-drug campaigns and ensure that perpetrators face legal consequences. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in drug enforcement and the commitment of authorities to uphold the law and safeguard communities from the harms of substance abuse.
