By John Rey Saavedra

PRE-CHRISTMAS DRUG BUST. A 38-year-old suspect looks at the PHP20.4 million worth of suspected shabu seized from her during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City on Dec. 23, 2024. On the same day, a 22-year-old boatman was arrested in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, with PHP8.1 million worth of suspected shabu. (Contributed photo)

CEBU CITY – Authorities confiscated suspected shabu with an estimated street value of PHP28.5 million in separate pre-Christmas buy-bust operations in Cebu and Bohol, police said Wednesday.

In Cebu City, a 38-year-old woman was arrested along F. Cabahug Street in Barangay Kasambagan on Dec. 23.

Police seized 3,010 grams of suspected shabu valued at PHP20.4 million during the operation conducted by the City Intelligence Unit of the Cebu City Police.

The suspect, identified only as “Nesan,” is a resident of Sitio Sudlon, Barangay Lahug.

Investigators said she acted as a courier and keeper, capable of distributing 3 kg. to 5 kg. of shabu weekly across Talisay, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu City.

Meanwhile, in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, a 22-year-old boatman was arrested on the same day in Purok 7, Barangay Bool.

Authorities recovered 1,200 grams of suspected shabu valued at PHP8.1 million during the operation, part of the “Oplan Limpyo Tagbilaran” anti-drug campaign.

The boatman, a resident of Barangay Libaong in Panglao Island, is being investigated to determine the source of his drug supply.

Evidence seized in both operations has been submitted to the Philippine National Police’s Forensic Unit 7 for chemical analysis.

The suspects face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, once courts resume operations after the holidays. (PNA)