Major Drug Bust in Iloilo: Police Nab High-Value Suspect with P1.1 Million in Shabu
In a significant anti-drug operation, operatives from the Santa Barbara Municipal Police Station successfully arrested a high-value individual and seized a substantial quantity of shabu valued at over one million pesos. The meticulously planned buy-bust took place in Barangay Zone VI, Santa Barbara, Iloilo, at precisely 11:45 a.m. on March 9, 2026.
Details of the Seizure and Arrest
Authorities confirmed the confiscation of approximately 160 grams of shabu, packaged in 13 transparent plastic sachets. The standard drug price for this haul is estimated at P1,088,000, marking a major blow to local drug trafficking activities. During the operation, police also recovered the marked buy-bust money and various non-drug items from the suspect, identified only by the alias "Froi," a 40-year-old resident of Santa Barbara, Iloilo.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), praised the operating units for their diligence and effectiveness. "I, together with our command group, commend our operatives for the seizure of this large amount of illegal drugs," Ligan stated. "This operation underscores our unwavering commitment to fight the drug menace and protect our communities. We will continue to pursue all individuals involved in illegal activities and hold them accountable under the law."
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The suspect is currently under police custody awaiting proper disposition, while the seized suspected illegal drugs have been thoroughly documented. These items are slated for submission to the crime laboratory for comprehensive examination to verify their composition and weight. In parallel, criminal charges are being prepared against the suspect for violation of Republic Act 9165, commonly known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Western Visayas to combat drug-related crimes and ensure public safety. The successful bust not only disrupts the local drug supply chain but also sends a strong message to other potential offenders about the consequences of engaging in such illicit activities.
