Iloilo Police Apprehend Two High-Value Drug Suspects in Coordinated Operations
In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has successfully arrested two high-value individuals (HVIs) and confiscated more than P1.16 million worth of shabu in separate buy-bust operations conducted in Estancia and Badiangan, Iloilo. These operations, which took place on March 17 and March 19, 2026, underscore the ongoing intensified campaign against drug trafficking in the province.
Major Seizure in Estancia Following Citizen Tip-Off
The largest seizure occurred in Barangay Calapdan, Estancia, where operatives from the Station Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) of the Estancia Municipal Police Station, under the leadership of Police Lieutenant Adrian Baligod, executed a buy-bust operation at approximately 6 p.m. on March 17, 2026. The arrest targeted a suspect known as alias Junjun, a 38-year-old unemployed male residing in NHA Pabahay Villas, Barangay Tacbuyan, Estancia, who was identified as a high-value drug personality.
Authorities recovered approximately 101 grams of shabu from his possession, with an estimated street value of P686,800. The operation was initiated based on information provided by concerned citizens regarding the suspect's alleged involvement in illegal drug activities. After four weeks of meticulous surveillance, police confirmed that Junjun was sourcing illegal drugs from Iloilo City and distributing them within Estancia.
Second Arrest in Badiangan Reinforces Anti-Drug Efforts
In a parallel operation, the SDET of Badiangan Municipal Police Station, led by Police Captain Jorge Lenantud, apprehended another high-value suspect at around 6:20 p.m. on March 19, 2026, in Barangay Linayuan, Badiangan. The suspect, identified as alias Eman, is a 52-year-old unemployed male with a live-in partner and a resident of Barangay Iniligan, Badiangan.
From Eman, operatives seized about 70 grams of shabu, valued at approximately P476,000. Similar to the Estancia case, this operation stemmed from tips by vigilant citizens. After nearly a month of surveillance, authorities verified the suspect's role in illegal drug trafficking, allegedly involving the procurement of drugs from Iloilo City for distribution in Badiangan.
Legal Proceedings and Police Commitment
Both suspects are currently detained at their respective municipal police station units and are facing charges under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The IPPO has reiterated its dedication to sustaining a robust campaign against illegal drugs, emphasizing collaboration with local communities to ensure public safety and security.
Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, the provincial director of IPPO, commended the operatives for their successful efforts and praised the public's cooperation in providing crucial information. In statements, he highlighted the importance of community trust in law enforcement, noting that such partnerships are vital for the success of anti-drug operations. Razalan affirmed that the police will continue their vigorous campaign across the entire province to protect communities from the harms associated with drug abuse.
Key Points from the Operations:
- Total Seizure Value: Over P1.16 million worth of shabu.
- Arrest Locations: Barangay Calapdan, Estancia, and Barangay Linayuan, Badiangan.
- Suspect Profiles: Both are unemployed males identified as high-value drug personalities.
- Investigation Basis: Operations were launched based on citizen reports and confirmed through extended surveillance periods.
- Legal Action: Charges filed under RA 9165, with ongoing police efforts to combat drug trafficking in Iloilo.
