Major Drug Operation in Talisay City Leads to Arrest of Notorious Suspects
In a significant crackdown on illegal narcotics, authorities in Talisay City apprehended a high-profile drug personality alongside an ex-convict during a targeted buy-bust operation. The incident occurred on Thursday evening, March 19, 2026, at approximately 7:27 PM along Sta. Lucia Road in Barangay Bulacao, marking a critical victory for local law enforcement efforts.
Suspects and Seizure Details
The individuals taken into custody have been identified as Risty Cabellon Pangatungan, alias Aga, a 37-year-old resident of Barangay Bulacao who was the primary target of the operation, and his alleged accomplice, Janet Cabellon Cabriana, a 59-year-old ex-convict also residing in the same barangay. During the arrest, police confiscated multiple packages believed to contain shabu, with a total weight of 25 grams. Based on standard drug pricing, the seized substances are estimated to have a street value of P170,000, highlighting the scale of the illicit activity.
Investigation and Distribution Network
According to Police Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr., the chief of the Cebu Police Provincial Office, both suspects are well-known drug personalities within Talisay City, with a history of involvement in narcotics trafficking. Their operation was not limited to a small area; investigators revealed that the duo distributed shabu supplies across the entire city of Talisay and into neighboring regions of Cebu Province. This widespread network underscores the pervasive nature of the drug trade in the area.
Further intelligence gathered by undercover agents indicated that the suspects were capable of selling between 40 to 50 grams of shabu per week, suggesting a consistent and substantial flow of illegal drugs. Authorities have also identified a potential supplier, known by the alias "Jun-Jun Aching", who is believed to be from Talisay. This individual is currently under validation by investigators as part of ongoing efforts to conduct follow-up operations and dismantle the broader supply chain.
The successful operation was carried out by members of the Provincial Intelligence Unit, demonstrating effective coordination and surveillance techniques. This arrest is expected to disrupt local drug distribution channels and serve as a deterrent to other criminal elements in the region.
