In a significant blow to illegal drug activities in the region, operatives from Iloilo City Police Station 2 executed a meticulously planned buy-bust operation, resulting in the arrest of two high-value individuals and the confiscation of shabu with an estimated street value of P408,000. The operation unfolded in Zone 2, Barangay Baldoza, La Paz District, Iloilo City, precisely at 6:35 a.m. on March 20, 2026.
Details of the Anti-Drug Operation
The police team, operating under the Iloilo City Police Office, successfully apprehended the suspects identified as alias Moros, aged 60, who is listed in the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council, and alias Jeth, aged 46. Both individuals are confirmed residents of La Paz District, highlighting the local impact of the operation.
During the raid, authorities seized a total of 14 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing approximately 60 grams of shabu. In addition to the illicit drugs, the operatives recovered buy-bust money and several non-drug items, which are now part of the evidence for the ongoing investigation.
Police Leadership Commends Operatives
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the director of Police Regional Office 6, publicly praised the efforts of the ICPS 2 operatives. In a statement, Ligan emphasized the importance of community collaboration in the fight against drugs.
"I commend the ICPS 2 operatives for the conduct of the operation. Let us continue to remain vigilant and strengthen our connection with the community as we work together toward a drug-free environment," Ligan said, underscoring the strategic approach to law enforcement in Iloilo City.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
The arrested suspects are currently under the custody of Iloilo City Police Station 2, where they are being processed for formal charges. They face serious allegations for violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
This legislation imposes stringent penalties for drug-related offenses, reflecting the government's firm stance against narcotics trafficking. The successful operation not only disrupts local drug distribution networks but also serves as a deterrent to other potential offenders in the area.
The Iloilo City Police Office has reiterated its commitment to ongoing anti-drug campaigns, leveraging intelligence-driven operations and community partnerships to enhance public safety. This incident marks a continued effort to address drug-related crimes in the city, with authorities urging residents to report any suspicious activities to help maintain a secure environment.
