In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Central Visayas (PDEA 7) have successfully seized approximately 550 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated market value of P3.74 million. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Abellana Police Station, unfolded on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 4:05 p.m. in Sitio Plaza Goma, Barangay Sambag 1, Cebu City.
Arrests and Confiscation Details
PDEA 7 Director Joel Plaza identified the suspects as alias Raffy, a 37-year-old vendor from Sambag 1 who served as the primary target, and his accomplice alias Harold, a 28-year-old janitor from Barangay Lamac, Consolacion. During the buy-bust, authorities confiscated 21 large packs of the suspected illegal substance, along with four cellular phones and other drug-related items. All seized materials are now under the custody of the PDEA 7 laboratory for thorough examination to support legal proceedings.
Surveillance and Case Buildup
According to PDEA 7 information officer Leia Alcantara, the operation followed an intensive three-week case buildup initiated after a tip from a confidential informant. The informant alleged that alias Raffy was capable of selling up to one kilogram of shabu per week, highlighting the scale of his suspected involvement in the drug trade. The suspects are currently detained at the PDEA 7 facility in Sudlon, Barangay Lahug, Cebu City, as authorities continue their investigation.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Actions
Authorities are actively tracking the source of the illegal drugs to dismantle the larger distribution network, with plans for possible follow-up operations. In response to this incident, the Provincial Government and local police have intensified monitoring of high-volume sellers in urban barangays to prevent the entry of illegal substances into community neighborhoods. Charges for violations of Republic Act 9165, specifically Sections 5 and 11 of Article II pertaining to the sale and possession of dangerous drugs, are being prepared against the suspects. Under this law, such offenses carry severe legal penalties, underscoring the gravity of the case.
The PDEA 7 remains steadfast in its commitment to the lawful implementation of anti-drug operations, working in close coordination with the Cebu City Government to uphold public safety and combat narcotics trafficking in the region.
