2 HVIS NABBED, OVER P908-K SHABU SEIZED IN BATAAN, BULACAN STINGS

BY KEVIN GALANG

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Two “high-value individuals” (HVIs) were arrested and more than P908,000 worth of suspected shabu was seized in separate anti-illegal drug operations in Bataan and Bulacan.

The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said the operations on Sept. 9 yielded approximately 133.58 grams of shabu with an estimated standard drug price of P908,344.

In Limay, Bataan, joint operatives of the Limay Municipal Police Station, Bataan Police Provincial Office, PRO3 and the Bataan Provincial Police Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a buy-bust operation at about 9:25 p.m. in Bgy. Reformista.

The operation, coordinated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 3, resulted in the arrest of a 56-year-old HVI who allegedly sold a sachet of suspected shabu to a police poseur-buyer.

A subsequent search resulted in the recovery of another sachet of suspected shabu and a cellular phone.

Police said the seized drugs weighed about 73.58 grams and were valued at an estimated P500,344.

Earlier that day, another 25-year-old HVI was arrested in a separate buy-bust conducted by the City Drug Enforcement Unit of the San Jose del Monte City Police Station in Bgy. Muzon South, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

The suspect allegedly sold a sachet of suspected shabu to an undercover police officer. 

Two additional sachets of suspected shabu were recovered during the operation.

The seized drugs weighed approximately 60 grams and had an estimated standard drug price of P408,000.

PRO3 director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez said the arrests demonstrated the continuing efforts of police units in Central Luzon to identify and arrest individuals involved in the illegal drug trade.

“These accomplishments are the result of sustained intelligence work, close coordination, and the commitment of our personnel on the ground,” Mendez said.

“We will continue to pursue those who profit from illegal drugs and put our communities at risk. At the same time, we will make sure that our operations remain focused, lawful, and respectful of the rights of every individual,” he added.

Mendez said the operations support the PNP Focused Agenda of PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., particularly the intensified campaign against illegal drugs and other threats to peace and order.

Police said charges for violations of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 are being prepared against the two suspects.

Mendez assured the public that PRO3 would continue conducting intelligence-driven and coordinated operations throughout Central Luzon as part of its commitment to deliver “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”