38 suspects nabbed, P3.6-M drugs seized

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) seized more than P3.6 million worth of illegal drugs and arrested 38 drug suspects March 10 to 16.

In a report on Monday, PRO-5 Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon said the 36 series of operations led to the confiscation of drug items, including 536.302 grams of shabu and 15.040 grams of marijuana.

The largest seizure of illegal drugs was in Camarines Sur, with P3.1 million from 13 arrested individuals; Camarines Norte with nine arrests and P111,004; and Masbate, with three violators caught with P333,200.

A total of 13 arrests and illegal drugs worth nearly P100,000 were reported in Albay, Sorsogon and Naga City. Meanwhile, no illegal drug activities were monitored in Catanduanes.

Dizon said all arrested suspects have been charged with violations of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

“A drug-free Bicol is possible if we work together. The police cannot do this alone. We need the active participation of communities in reporting drug-related activities and supporting rehabilitation efforts. Only through unity and vigilance can we eliminate this threat once and for all,” he said.

Meanwhile, in Baao town, policeman arrested a high-value drug suspect and seized from him P2.7 million worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation conducted over the week.

In a statement, Dizon identified the suspect as alias “Edward,” a resident of the area.

Confiscated from the suspect were five heat-sealed and two knot-tied transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu.

The total weight of the seized narcotics was approximately 405 grams, with an estimated street value of P2.754 million.

“This operation is a clear testament to our resolute efforts in eliminating illegal drugs from our communities,” Dizon said.

“Edward” and the confiscated evidence are currently in the custody of the Baao Municipal Police Station for proper processing. He is facing charges under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Dizon said the arrest was made possible through a joint operation conducted by the Office of the Deputy Regional Director for Operations and the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit in Bicol, along with the Baao and Nabua Municipal Police Stations and the Provincial Intelligence Unit.

The operation was also coordinated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the region.

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any drug-related activities to the authorities,” Dizon said. (PNA)