PDEA shuts down drug den, four nabbed

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) dismantled an alleged drug den and arrested four individuals, including a senior high school student, in a buy-bust operation at Purok Magtiayon, Barangay 10, here last Friday.

Cornelio Espartero, Intelligence Agent V and head of PDEA-Negros Occidental, reported that the operation targeted Romeo Cañete, 49, an e-bike driver who had been under surveillance for approximately two weeks following allegations of drug-related offenses.

According to Espartero, three others, including the student, were caught allegedly participating in a “pot session” within the premises of the drug den, reportedly maintained by Cañete.

The operation, conducted in coordination with the PDEA-6 Special Enforcement Team (RSET) Bravo, allegedly led to the seizure of 13 grams of suspected shabu valued at P88,400.

Authorities also recovered P500 in marked money, a pair of scissors, lighters, an improvised tooter, and P200 from the suspects.

Espartero stated that drug charges would be filed against the suspects, including two women, on Monday, February 19. Subsequently, they will be transported to PDEA’s regional office in Iloilo City for custody.