Ex-Convict Caught in Cabatuan Drug Bust

By Jennifer P. Rendon

An ex-convict was arrested in a police anti-illegal drugs operation on the morning of March 30 in Cabatuan, Iloilo.

Police identified the suspect only by his alias, Fredgie, 53, a resident of Barangay Jelicuon Montinola, Cabatuan.

He was arrested by operatives of the Cabatuan Municipal Police Station and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office – Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (IPPO-PDEU) Team 2 after allegedly selling a sachet of suspected shabu for PHP12,509.

Authorities recovered 14 additional sachets of suspected shabu along with several non-drug items from his possession.

Capt. Aileen Lacrite, Cabatuan police chief, said the seized drugs weighed approximately 60 grams and had an estimated street value of PHP408,000.

Police records show the suspect was previously arrested for a drug-related offense in 2016.

He was released from detention in July 2019 after availing of a plea bargaining agreement.

Lacrite said authorities began monitoring him again in December 2024 after suspecting he had returned to the illegal drug trade.

He reportedly operates in Cabatuan and nearby towns.

Police are still investigating the source of his drug supply.

Fredgie is currently detained and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.