Cebu Fish Trader Alleged Drug Kingpin Nabbed in P680,000 Shabu Bust
Operatives from the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PNP DEG) Special Operation Unit 7 successfully apprehended a high-value target (HVT), who identified himself as a fish trader, during a meticulously planned buy-bust operation on Wednesday evening, March 18, 2026. The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug activities in the region.
Details of the Operation and Arrest
The operation unfolded at 6:35 PM in Sityo Cabangcalan 1, Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City. The suspect, known by the alias "Alfie," is a 37-year-old resident of the area. Authorities confiscated from him several large packages believed to contain shabu, with an estimated weight of 100 grams. According to police reports, this quantity of drugs carries a Standard Drug Price (SDP) valued at approximately P680,000, highlighting the substantial scale of the seizure.
All evidence recovered during the operation has been forwarded to the PNP Regional Forensic Unit 7 in Sudlon, Barangay Lahug, for comprehensive chemical analysis. This step is crucial to confirm the substance's nature and support legal proceedings against the suspect.
Suspect's Criminal History and Alleged Network
One of the PDEG operatives disclosed that this is not the first time Alfie has been arrested. He was previously captured on Camotes Island but managed to secure release after serving several years in prison. Authorities allege that Alfie was capable of selling up to one kilogram of shabu per month, depending on the supply delivered to his residence. His operation reportedly involved a network of minors who disposed of the illegal drugs in neighboring barangays around Bulacao, indicating a sophisticated and concerning distribution method.
Police have strongly refuted Alfie's claim of being a legitimate fish trader. Operatives noted that he was consistently observed staying indoors, rarely venturing outside, which contradicts the active lifestyle typical of a businessperson. This behavior raised suspicions and contributed to his targeting by law enforcement.
Long-Term Investigation and Legal Actions
It was revealed that Alfie had been a long-term target for various police units due to his elusive nature, which made previous attempts to apprehend him challenging. Authorities have prepared charges for violations under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, ensuring a robust legal framework for prosecution. This arrest underscores the persistent efforts of the PNP to dismantle drug networks and uphold public safety in Cebu City and beyond.
