In a significant anti-drug operation, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 7, assisted by local police, apprehended a suspected drug dealer known as "Hudas" in Lapu-Lapu City. The arrest occurred on Sunday night, March 1, 2026, at Purok Rambo, Barangay Babag, following a meticulously planned buy-bust.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
The suspect, identified as a 26-year-old habal-habal driver from Barangay Candulawan, Talisay City, was captured after authorities recovered a substantial quantity of shabu. During the operation, which took place at approximately 7:50 PM, two large packages of suspected shabu were confiscated. These were concealed inside a Jollibee food carton, with a total weight of one kilogram.
Estimated Value and Evidence
The seized drugs have an estimated average market value of P6.8 million. In addition to the shabu, authorities also recovered buy-bust money, a cellphone, and other related items. All evidence has been forwarded to the PDEA 7 Regional Office Laboratory for custody and further analysis, while the suspect is currently detained at the PDEA 7 facility in Sityo Sudlon, Barangay Lahug, Cebu City.
Investigation and Modus Operandi
According to Leia Alcantara, information officer for PDEA 7, the case against "Hudas" involved three days of intensive case buildup. His name emerged during a previous operation, linking him to a major shabu supply chain. Alcantara revealed that "Hudas" was allegedly capable of selling one kilo of shabu per week, sourced from his suppliers.
To evade detection, the suspect employed a cunning method: he would enter fast food chains to purchase meals, using the opportunity to mix the drug packages with his food orders. This tactic aimed to disguise his illegal transactions under the guise of ordinary consumer activity.
Legal Charges and Ongoing Efforts
Authorities are preparing to file charges against the suspect for violations of Section 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This arrest underscores PDEA 7's ongoing commitment to combating drug trafficking in the region, with efforts focused on dismantling supply networks and apprehending key players in the illegal drug trade.
The operation highlights the collaborative work between PDEA 7 and local law enforcement in Lapu-Lapu City, demonstrating a proactive approach to maintaining public safety and upholding the law against dangerous substances.
