Two Arrested in PHP 544K Oton Drug Bust

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Two individuals were arrested during a police anti-narcotics operation in Oton, Iloilo, on the evening of Jan. 29.

Alias Decart, 38, and his companion, alias Jovi, 31, both residents of Barangay Trapiche, Oton, were apprehended during a buy-bust operation in their neighborhood.

The operation was conducted by the Oton Municipal Police Station in collaboration with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office – Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (IPPO-PDEU) Team 1 and the 1st Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company (IPMFC).

The suspects were caught selling a sachet of suspected shabu for PHP 6,200.

Authorities also seized seven additional sachets of suspected shabu and several non-drug paraphernalia.

The confiscated drugs weighed approximately 80 grams, with an estimated street value of PHP 544,000.

Police identified Decart as the primary target of the operation, initiated following multiple reports of the suspects’ involvement in illegal drug activities.

Officers conducted a three-month surveillance before launching the operation.

Decart and Jovi are currently detained and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Colonel Bayani Razalan, Iloilo police chief, commended the dedication of the operatives, emphasizing the IPPO’s steadfast commitment to eradicating illegal drugs in the province.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities.