‘Repeat drug offender’ arrested, minor rescued in Bacolod

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Operatives of the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) arrested a two-time drug offender and rescued a teenage boy during a buy-bust operation that yielded PHP 1.7 million worth of suspected shabu in Barangay Singcang-Airport on Monday night.

Police Lt. Richard Legada, assistant CDEU chief, identified the suspect as “Roy,” 25, and his 15-year-old companion, both residents of Barangay Vista Alegre.

Authorities recovered 250 grams of suspected shabu and a .357-caliber revolver loaded with two live rounds from Roy.

According to the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), the operation was launched based on intelligence provided by a confidential informant about Roy’s alleged drug activity in multiple barangays.

Legada said Roy is listed as a high-value individual in the barangay drug watchlist and had previously been arrested in September 2022 for drug possession before being released on probation in April 2023.

The minor, reportedly Roy’s right-hand man in the operation, was identified as a street-level individual under his care.

He was turned over to the Social Development Center (SDC) at the Bacolod City Police Office headquarters for temporary custody and assessment.

Legada said the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) is conducting further investigation into the minor’s involvement.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a discernment allowing the police to file charges of alleged conspiracy against the minor.

Roy will face charges for sale and possession of dangerous drugs, as well as illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, and is currently detained at Police Station 8.

PRO-NIR said the operation forms part of its intensified anti-drug campaign aimed at securing communities ahead of next month’s MassKara Festival.

“This is a strong message to those who continue to engage in illegal drugs that PRO-NIR remains vigilant, especially as Bacolod City prepares for the MassKara Festival,” said Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director.

Ibay emphasized their commitment to ensuring that the celebration is festive, safe, and secure for everyone.