BACOLOD City — A 19-year-old former criminology student was arrested after police seized about 52 grams of suspected shabu worth P353,600 in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Sum-ag here on August 19.
Police identified the suspect as alias “Tata,” a resident of Barangay 1, Bacolod City. He was arrested along San Juan Street, Purok San Sebastian, following a controlled drug transaction conducted by personnel of Police Station 9 of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO).
Police said the operation stemmed from information provided by a confidential informant who reported the suspect’s alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade in the area.
After surveillance and validation, operatives arranged a transaction with the suspect. Authorities said he allegedly used GCash as a payment method and was reportedly carrying between 25 and 50 grams of suspected illegal drugs during transactions.
The operation resulted in the recovery of one sachet of suspected shabu used as the buy-bust item, eight additional sachets and one knot-tied plastic containing suspected shabu, a black sling bag, and the P1,000 buy-bust money.
The suspect and the non-drug evidence remain in the custody of Police Station 9 pending the filing of charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) Regional Director Brig. Gen. Romano V. Cardiño said the operation demonstrated the police force’s continued efforts to suppress the illegal drug trade.
“Every successful operation reflects our firm resolve to suppress the illegal drug trade and protect our communities. We will continue to pursue drug personalities through intelligence-driven operations and ensure that those who violate the law are held accountable,” Cardiño said.
PRO-NIR said the operation forms part of its continuing campaign against illegal drugs through intelligence-driven policing and sustained law enforcement operations./PN
