ILOILO City – Two newly identified drug suspects were apprehended during a police antidrug operation in Barangay Poblacion Zone III, Estancia, Iloilo.
Known by the aliases “Jason”, a resident of Barangay Bulaqueña, Estancia, and “Aris”, 43, of Barangay Poblacion Zone III, Estancia, the suspects were detained at the Estancia police station following the recovery of 200 grams of shabu valued at approximately P1.4 million.
Major Marvin Buenavista, police chief of Estancia, said the buy-bust operation was executed at 10:05 p.m. on April 25.
The suspects allegedly sold shabu worth P3,500 to a police asset before their arrest.
“Upon frisking, we recovered 200 grams of shabu from their possession, estimated to be worth P1,360,000. This arrest follows two months of surveillance and undercover transactions,” said Buenavista.
He further noted that while the suspects were initially known as drug users, they had subsequently become involved in drug trafficking.
“There is an individual who delivers drugs to them, and their supply originates from Manila. They operate not only within Estancia but also in neighboring towns,” Buenavista told Panay News.
The suspects are to be charged with violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Colonel Bayani Razalan, the officer-in-charge police provincial director, emphasized that this operation was part of intensified efforts to combat illegal activities, particularly illegal drugs, ensuring a safer, drug-free Iloilo province.
“I commend all personnel involved in this major drug accomplishment. Your dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our community, especially in combating crime and illegal drugs, is truly commendable,” said Razalan./PN
