Weekend drug raids yield PHP1.5-M in shabu seizures

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – A total of PHP1.54 million worth of suspected shabu was seized and six suspects were arrested in a series of anti-illegal drug operations across Negros Island from July 25 to 28, according to the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR).

The largest haul came from San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, where a 22-year-old construction worker from Barangay Vista Alegre allegedly yielded 74.65 grams of suspected shabu valued at PHP507,620.

The suspect was apprehended on Monday after police responded to a reported commotion in Barangay 6 during a routine patrol.

Upon arrival, officers reportedly saw the man attempting to discard a paper bag containing the illegal drugs, prompting immediate arrest.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, commended the local police for their swift action and vigilance.

“Our operatives demonstrated professionalism and alertness, which led to the timely arrest of a high-value individual,” Ibay said.

In Binalbagan town, two suspects were caught during a buy-bust at a restobar in Barangay Enclaro, where police seized 17 grams of suspected shabu worth PHP115,600.

Also recovered were a .38 caliber revolver, three rounds of ammunition, and PHP500 in marked money.

On Saturday, the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) arrested 44-year-old “Geng-Geng” in Barangay Handumanan, Bacolod City, for possession of 40 grams of suspected shabu valued at PHP272,000.

CDEU assistant chief Police Lt. Richard Legada said the suspect had a previous drug offense in 2022 and was released in April this year under a plea bargaining agreement.

“She was listed on the barangay drug watchlist and is tagged as a street-level individual,” Legada added.

In E.B. Magalona, a 44-year-old fish vendor was arrested in Barangay Alicante on Friday after police seized 20 grams of suspected shabu worth PHP136,000.

Meanwhile, in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, police captured another high-value target on Friday in Barangay Bagacay.

The suspect allegedly possessed 75 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of PHP510,000, along with drug paraphernalia.

“These coordinated efforts highlight the unwavering dedication and bravery of our operatives on the ground,” Ibay said.

PRO-NIR emphasized that the operations are part of a broader regional crackdown against illegal drugs to enhance public safety and dismantle drug networks.