By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – Police arrested three high-value individuals and seized nearly PHP8 million worth of shabu in separate operations in Quezon City and in the province of Zamboanga early Friday.
In a report, Philippine National Police-Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) chief Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta said suspects alias “Potyok” and “Nell,” both residents of Barangay Sta. Monica, Novaliches, Quezon City, were arrested during a buy-bust in Ibong Pilak, Kanan in Novaliches at around 12:45 a.m.
The suspects yielded shabu, weighing approximately one kilogram with an estimated street value of PHP6,800,000, along with other non-drug evidence.
They are in the temporary custody of the PDEG Special Operations Unit at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City for proper documentation and disposition.
The seized drug evidence has been turned over to the PNP Crime Laboratory at Camp Crame in Quezon City for examination.
Meanwhile, Matta said alias “Jig,” 42, of Barangay Tigtabon, Zamboanga City was arrested around 1:57 a.m. at Arena Blanco.
Authorities seized three heat-sealed transparent plastic packs containing shabu, weighing approximately 150 grams, with an estimated street value of PHP1,020,000, along with other non-drug evidence.
He is in the temporary custody of the Zamboanga City Police Office Station 6 while the confiscated drugs were transferred to the Zamboanga City Forensic Unit.
“With the success of these buy-busts, law enforcement has once again demonstrated its commitment to restoring peace and safety. Those involved in drug trafficking are being held accountable for their actions. These operations underscore our dedication to protecting communities from the destructive impacts of drug abuse,” Matta said. (PNA)