TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte – In the persistent campaign against illegal drugs, a joint operation led by Tacloban City Police Office- City Drug Enforcement Unit yielded a successful buy-bust in Barangay 89 San Jose, Tacloban City, on December 11.
Col. Noelito Getigan, city director said the operation led to the arrest of two high-value drug suspects known as “Clint,” 33-year-old self-employed male and “Ar,” 35-year-old unemployed male, both residents of Palo, Leyte.
Getigan said, to ensure transparency and adherence to protocol, the operation was jointly conducted with the TCPO-CIU in coordination with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 8, with the use of Body-Worn Cameras (BWC) and Alternative Recording Devices (ARD).
The buy-bust was executed by a designated poseur-buyer, who was able to purchase from the suspect a substance suspected as ‘shabu’ worth P7,000.00.
Following the transaction, the arresting officers apprehended the suspect and informed him of his rights in a language he understood.
During a lawful search, several pieces of drug and non-drug evidence were confiscated from the suspect’s possession and control.
These items were individually marked and inventoried in the presence of the suspect and witnesses from the local public office.
The seized drug items were more or less 225 grams with an estimated Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) value of P1,530,000.00.
Meanwhile, the actual weight of the confiscated drug items is yet to be determined by the Regional Forensic Unit (RFU) 8.
Criminal charges for violation of Section 5&11, Article II if RA 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 is now being prepared against the suspect.
“Congratulations to all involved in the success of this anti-illegal drug operation. This accomplishment manifests the dedication and teamwork of our operatives. This achievement is a significant step in our ongoing fight against crime and drug abuse,” stated Col.Getigan.
He also encouraged the community and local government unit to work closely with the police by providing real-time information so that the problem with illegal drugs can soon end.
