A fish vendor listed as a high-value individual (HVI) was arrested in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Almeñana, Lemery, Iloilo.
Authorities seized about 130 grams of suspected “shabu” with a market value of P884,000 from the suspect, who was identified as alias “Pantoy.”
The suspect also yielded buy-bust money, one black Kawasaki Bajaj motorcycle, and other non-drug items.
The operation was conducted by the Lemery police station together with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) – Provincial Intelligence Unit, 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the IPPO-Provincial Drug Enforcement Team 3 on March 23.
The suspect will face charges for violating Section 5 (Illegal Sale of Dangerous Drugs) and Section 11 (Illegal Possession of Dangerous Drugs) of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The offenses carry a punishment of life imprisonment and fine ranging from P500,000.00 to P10,000,000
Police Regional Office (PRO-6) director Police Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan applauded the operating units for “a job well done.”
“We commend our personnel for their dedication and commitment to keeping our communities safe. Let this serve as a strong warning that we will continue to pursue those who threaten the peace and security of our region,” he said.
“The PRO-6 assures the public that we will not stop going after drug personalities until [Western Visayas] is drug-free,” Ligan added.IMT
