Authorities seized an estimated P3.7 million worth of suspected “shabu” and arrested three individuals, including a minor, during an anti-illegal drug operation in Jaro, Iloilo City, on Thursday evening, June 11.
The primary target of the buy-bust operation in Zone 1, Brgy. Tacas was a 48-year-old female suspect identified only as alias “Karen.” She is listed as a high-value individual (HVI).
Prior to the arrest, the suspect had been placed under intense surveillance for her alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade across Jaro district and neighboring towns.
Also nabbed were alias “Kyle,” a 25-year-old unemployed suspect tagged as a street-level individual (SLI), and a 17-year-old minor.
The three are all residents of Jaro.
Authorities confiscated approximately 555 grams of suspected shabu packed in 22 heat-sealed and nine knot-tied transparent plastic sachets.
Police also recovered the buy-bust money, suspected drug proceeds, and other non-drug evidence at the scene.
The adult suspects are currently in police custody and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, the minor was turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) for proper intervention and processing as a child in conflict with the law.
The operation was conducted by operatives from the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU-6).
Police Brigadier General Randulf T. Tuaño, acting regional director of the Police Region Office (PRO-6), praised the operating units for what he noted is the largest drug haul recorded during his first three weeks in leadership.
“I commend our operating units for their dedication, effective coordination, strengthened collaboration, and professionalism that led to the arrest of these drug personalities and the confiscation of a significant volume of illegal drugs,” he said.IMT
