The Police Regional Office (PRO-6) dealt a significant blow to the illegal drug trade in Western Visayas, seizing over P19 million worth of shabu and arresting dozens of suspects during a concentrated week-long offensive.

Under the direction of PRO-6 director Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan, regional forces conducted 41 separate operations between April 6 and April 12 this year.

The operations resulted in the arrest of 61 individuals and the confiscation of approximately 2.846 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, valued at P19,357,560.

Among those apprehended, 21 were classified as high-value individuals (HVIs), while the remaining 40 were identified as street-level individuals (SLIs).

PRO-6 considered the following as high-impact stings:

▪️ The Iloilo Police Provincial Office conducted the week’s largest single seizure in Brgy. Poblacion Zone 1, Estancia, on April 7. Five individuals—including one HVI identified as “Kurt”—were arrested with 560 grams of shabu worth an estimated ₱3.8 million.
▪️The Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) arrested live-in partners “Rex” (an HVI with a prior drug record) and “Judy” in Brgy. Tanza Esperanza, Iloilo City, on April 9. Police recovered 465 grams of shabu valued at ₱3.16 million.
▪️An HVI identified as “Rene” was apprehended in Brgy. Banban, Batad, on April 9. In addition to 340 grams of shabu worth ₱2.3 million, police recovered a loaded .38 caliber revolver.

The suspects are currently in custody and facing charges for violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).

The suspect apprehended in Batad facing additional charges for illegal possession of firearms under Republic Act 10591.

Ligan attributed the success of the operations to intelligence-driven tactics and the active cooperation of community informants.

“This accomplishment highlights PRO6’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding communities from the harmful effects of illegal drugs,” he  stated.

Ligam furged local government units (LGUs) and the general public to remain vigilant in reporting suspicious activities.IMT