Ex-Convict Caught in PHP1.6-M Drug Bust

By Jennifer P. Rendon

An ex-convict was arrested in an anti-illegal drug operation in Pavia, Iloilo, on the evening of March 25.

The suspect, alias Redzon, 52, of Barangay Desamparados, Jaro, Iloilo City, was apprehended at Monticello Villas in Barangay Balabag, Pavia.

He was arrested by the Iloilo Police Provincial Office Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (IPPO-PDEU) Team 1, along with personnel from the IPPO Provincial Intelligence Unit, PDEU Team 2, and the Pavia Municipal Police Station.

Authorities said Redzon sold a sachet of suspected shabu worth PHP6,000 to an undercover officer.

During a body search, police found eight more sachets of suspected shabu packed in two knot-tied plastic bags, along with several non-drug items.

Maj. Dadje Delima, IPPO-PDEU chief, said the confiscated drugs weighed about 240 grams with an estimated street value of PHP1,632,000.

Delima said they launched the operation following reports of Redzon’s alleged drug trade involvement.

The suspect had been under surveillance for nearly two months before the buy-bust was carried out.

Redzon was previously arrested for a drug-related offense in 2016.

He was released from detention in 2020 after being granted probation by the court.

He allegedly sourced his drug supply from a distributor in Iloilo City.

His reported areas of operation included the towns of Pavia and Santa Barbara and parts of Iloilo City.

Redzon is now back in jail and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.