APALIT -- A notorious drug peddler was arrested by operatives of the Regional Drug Enforcement Unit in a drug bust launched in this town.

Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Luzon Director Rhodel Sermonia identified the suspect as Marlon Morales, a resident of Pulilan, Bulacan.

Morales's cohort identified as Dexter Manalad, however, was able to elude arrest during the operation.

Morales reportedly is responsible for the proliferation of illegal drugs in his hometown and nearby municipalities, including Apalit town.

Seized from the actual possession of Morales were three medium plastic sachets of shabu, marked and boodle money and a cellphone allegedly used for his illegal transactions.

Sermonia said Morales is now facing charges for violation of Section 5 and 11 of Republic Act (RA) 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

He said Central Luzon police's aggressive campaign against illegal drugs is continued to be carried out despite relentless efforts on the prevention of Covid-19 and several programs aimed at assisting less fortunate individuals in the region.