Major Drug Bust Nets P2 Million in Illegal Substances
Law enforcement authorities scored a significant victory in the war against illegal drugs with the arrest of two high-value targets and the confiscation of over P2 million worth of shabu in Cotabato City. The successful operation, which took place on Thursday, November 20, represents a major blow to drug trafficking activities in the Bangsamoro region.
Coordinated Operation Leads to Arrests
According to Police Brigadier General Jaysen De Guzman, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), the suspects identified as alias Tats and alias Ana, both of legal age, were apprehended during a carefully planned buy-bust operation. The arrest occurred in Mother Poblacion village, Cotabato City, where lawmen had been monitoring the suspects' activities.
The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 305 grams of shabu carefully packed in six plastic containers. Police estimated the street value of the confiscated drugs at P2,074,000, representing a significant quantity of illegal substances that won't reach the community. Authorities also recovered the buy-bust money used in the operation.
Suspects Face Serious Charges
Both arrested individuals are currently detained at the Cotabato City Police Office while police prepare formal charges against them for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This legislation carries severe penalties for those involved in drug trafficking, reflecting the government's tough stance against narcotics distribution.
The anti-drug operation was conducted by police units with crucial support from personnel of the 1st Marine Brigade, demonstrating effective inter-agency cooperation. General De Guzman praised the coordinated efforts of all operating units, emphasizing that their teamwork directly contributed to the successful apprehension of the suspects and the removal of dangerous drugs from the streets.
Continued Vigilance Against Drugs
Following the operation, General De Guzman called upon the public to maintain vigilance and continue supporting the government's comprehensive campaign against illegal drugs and all forms of criminality. The successful bust underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat drug proliferation in the Bangsamoro region and throughout the Philippines.
This latest achievement in Cotabato City demonstrates the commitment of local authorities to creating safer communities by targeting high-value individuals involved in the drug trade. The substantial quantity of shabu seized prevents potential addiction and crime that often accompanies drug abuse, protecting vulnerable community members from the devastating effects of substance abuse.
