• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
Law enforcers successfully carried out a buy-bust operation at Purok Bougainvilla, Barangay Candau-ay, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental on Sunday which led to the seizure of more than P2.2 million worth of suspected shabu and the arrest of a High-Value Individual.
The operation by Dumaguete Component City Police Station led to the arrest of the 33-year-old tagged by the police as a HVI named alias “Michael,” and residing at Purok Ano, Barangay Banilad in the city.
Police said that the operation was initiated following a tip from a confidential agent indicating that the suspect was actively engaged in the sale of illegal drugs.
However, the initial transaction did not push through due to insufficient supply, and the suspect informed them that he would contact them later if the drugs became available. Subsequently, the suspect reached out and provided the exact location for the transaction.
Upon confirmation, operatives conducted a thorough briefing before the operation. During the second meeting, the buy-bust operation was immediately executed following the consummation of the sale, resulting in the successful seizure of 327.21 grams of suspected shabu with a standard drug price of P2,225,028, marking a significant victory in the fight against the illegal drug trade.
Police Regional Director PBrig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay lauded the Dumaguete CPS for their unwavering dedication in the relentless campaign against illegal drugs.
“This major seizure demonstrates our steadfast commitment to eradicate the illegal drug trade in Negros Island Region. PRO NIR will continue to conduct decisive operations to ensure the safety and security of our communities,” the director said in a statement.
The confiscated drug evidence was submitted to the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination. The non-drug evidence and the suspect remains under police custody for proper legal disposition.*
