Iloilo drug sting nets PHP1.5M in shabu, 3 arrested

Authorities seized an estimated PHP1.56 million worth of suspected shabu and arrested three high-value drug suspects during a buy-bust operation in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo on the evening of August 7.

The operation, conducted at 7:35 p.m. in Barangay Zone 2 along Rodriguez Street, led to the confiscation of 230 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, according to the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6 (RPDEU-6).

The arrested individuals were identified by their aliases: “Ric,” 32; “Madre,” 40; and “Tel,” 39—all residents of Mandurriao, Iloilo City and listed as high-value priority targets in the region’s anti-drug campaign.

Police operatives recovered seven transparent plastic sachets and two knot-tied plastic bags containing suspected shabu.

Other seized items included buy-bust money, two Android smartphones, a self-sealing plastic container with several aluminum foil strips, and assorted non-drug paraphernalia.

The operation was led by RPDEU-6 in close coordination with the Sta. Barbara Municipal Police Station, Iloilo Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, Police Drug Enforcement Group–Special Operations Unit 6, and Regional Intelligence Division 6.

“The coordination among units was critical to the success of the operation,” a regional intelligence officer involved in the case said. “This is part of our sustained efforts to dismantle high-level drug networks in Iloilo.”

The suspects are currently in police custody and will face charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Under Republic Act No. 9165, possession of 50 grams or more of shabu constitutes a non-bailable offense and carries penalties of life imprisonment and a fine ranging from PHP500,000 to PHP10 million.

Authorities have yet to confirm whether the suspects are linked to any regional drug syndicates.