NARCO TRADE IS THRIVING: Around P22 million worth of ‘shabu’ seized in a week

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Despite the series of high-value arrests in the past several months, illegal drugs continue to stream into Western Visayas.

Last week alone, different police units in the region confiscated 3.232 kilograms of suspected shabu in 69 operations.

The seizures were valued at P21.978 million. On average, police seized around P3.140 million of shabu daily, based on Birada Semana operations that ran from Jan. 8 to 14.

Birada Semana is a weeklong enhanced managing police operations (E-MPO) and focused police operation on anti-criminality, wanted persons, illegal drugs, and illegal gambling.

Despite this week’s “big” confiscation, it still pales in comparison to last month’s Birada Semana where 60 anti-illegal operations led to the recovery of 7.202 kilos of shabu valued at P48.973 million.

Meanwhile, 163 wanted persons were arrested in the said period. The number includes 44 “Most Wanted Persons.”

On loose firearms, nine operations were conducted that led to the arrest of nine suspects.

Also, 146 firearms and 30 explosives were either surrendered or recovered all over the region.

In the fight against illegal gambling, 54 operations were conducted that resulted in the apprehension of 169 individuals and the confiscation of P38,451 in bet money.

Brigadier General Sidney Villaflor, Western Visayas police chief, said the accomplishment is “a testament to the unwavering dedication of our police force in maintaining peace, order, and progress in our communities.”

“That’s why, I salute our personnel on the ground for their time, skills, and dedication. I seek continuous support from our citizens, as I believe it is the key to success in all aspects of our campaign,” he said.