ILOILO CITY - A significant blow was dealt to the local drug trade as operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 apprehended a construction worker during a buy-bust operation in Jaro district on Wednesday evening.
The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Richard Dionaldo, was caught in possession of approximately 250 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P1,700,000. The substantial quantity of illegal substances suggests the individual was involved in large-scale distribution rather than mere personal use.
Coordinated Anti-Drug Operation
According to PDEA Regional Director Alex Tablate, the successful operation resulted from weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance. "This seizure represents a significant disruption to the drug supply chain in Western Visayas," Tablate stated during a press briefing.
The arrest occurred around 9:30 PM along E. Lopez Street in Barangay Bito-On, Jaro, following a carefully planned operation where an undercover agent posed as a buyer. Authorities recovered the suspected illegal drugs along with various drug paraphernalia and the marked money used in the transaction.
Ongoing Campaign Against Illegal Drugs
This latest arrest forms part of the intensified anti-illegal drug campaign throughout Western Visayas. Law enforcement agencies have been conducting coordinated operations targeting both street-level peddlers and higher-level distributors.
"We continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities in their communities," Tablate emphasized. "Community cooperation remains crucial in our fight against illegal drugs."
The suspect is currently detained at the PDEA Regional Office detention facility and faces charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. If convicted, Dionaldo could face life imprisonment and fines ranging from P500,000 to P10 million.
