Tokhang Surrenderer Nabbed in PHP680K Drug Bust

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A former Tokhang surrenderer was arrested during an anti-illegal drugs operation on the afternoon of March 24 in Pototan, Iloilo.

The suspect, alias Jeffrey, 45, of Barangay Igang, was caught in a buy-bust operation after selling a sachet of suspected shabu for PHP1,600.

Upon frisking, Pototan police recovered a knot-tied plastic bag and two more sachets of suspected shabu, along with several non-drug paraphernalia.

Capt. Jersey Besas, chief of Pototan Municipal Police Station, said the seized drugs weighed about 100 grams with an estimated street value of PHP680,000.

Although Jeffrey was a Tokhang surrenderer, he had no prior drug-related arrests.

“Tokhang” is part of the Duterte government’s anti-drug campaign, where authorities visit suspected drug personalities to urge them to surrender and undergo rehabilitation.

On Feb. 16, Pototan police also arrested Jeffrey’s younger brother, alias Rogelio, 38.

Rogelio was found in possession of 24 sachets of suspected shabu weighing 70 grams and worth PHP476,000.

Jeffrey is now detained and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, just like his brother.