Negros Oriental police seize PHP2.2 million in ‘shabu’

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo) made a significant breakthrough in the anti-illegal drug campaign with the seizure of PHP 2,225,028 worth of suspected shabu in Barangay Candau-ay, Dumaguete City, on Sunday.

The buy-bust operation led to the confiscation of approximately 327.21 grams of suspected shabu from a 33-year-old suspect, identified only as “Michael,” a resident of Barangay Banilad.

The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) identified the suspect as a high-value individual (HVI).

Police said the operation was initiated after a tip from a confidential informant alleged that the suspect was actively selling illegal drugs.

An initial meeting was arranged between the informant, a poseur buyer, and the suspect, but it did not proceed due to insufficient supply.

The suspect later reinitiated contact, and a follow-up transaction was set, ultimately leading to the suspect’s arrest.

“This accomplishment reinforces our determination to pursue criminals relentlessly and deliver justice,” said Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, in a statement.

In a separate operation, the provincial police arrested another HVI who allegedly yielded 65.4 grams of suspected shabu valued at PHP 444,720 in Barangay Masaplod Norte, Dauin, on Nov. 20.

On Nov. 18, authorities also apprehended another HVI in Mabinay town, where 66 grams of suspected shabu worth PHP 448,800 and drug paraphernalia were seized.