ILOILO — A 48-year-old tricycle driver was arrested after police seized 155 grams of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Oton town on December 23, 2025.
The operation was conducted at around 8:28 a.m. at Lumina Homes, Phase 1, Barangay Abilay Norte, by joint operatives of the Oton Municipal Police Station and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office’s Drug Enforcement Team 1.
The suspect was identified as alias “Tukoy,” a resident of Barangay Abilay Norte, who was reportedly caught in the act of selling illegal drugs. Police recovered eight plastic sachets containing the suspected shabu, along with marked buy-bust money and other non-drug-related items.
Police Regional Office 6 director Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan commended the operatives for the successful operation, noting its significance amid intensified anti-drug efforts during the holiday season.
“The arrest of alias ‘Tukoy’ and the seizure of illegal drugs send a strong message that our commitment to law enforcement remains firm, especially during the Christmas season,” Ligan said.
He added that sustained operations are crucial in maintaining peace and order and in protecting communities from the harmful effects of illegal drugs.
The buy-bust operation forms part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing campaign to curb the proliferation of illegal drugs across Western Visayas, with authorities further intensifying operations during the holidays.
The suspect is currently in police custody and faces charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002./PN
