POLICE have launched a manhunt operation to recapture a drug syndicate member who escaped from detention in the province of Zamboanga del Sur.

Chief Inspector Helen Galvez, Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula information officer, said subject of the manhunt was Abdulsalim Mangongaya, alias Dondon Sanday, 30, a resident of Poblacion, Margosatubig, Zamboanga del Sur.

Mangongaya was able to escape from the lock-up cell of the police headquarters in Margosatubig town. His escape was discovered around 2 a.m. Sunday, July 8.

Galvez said Mangongaya escaped by cutting the iron bar at the back of the lock-up cell with a hacksaw.

He escaped three days after he was arrested by joint police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives in Kalian village, Margosatubig.

Mangongaya has been listed as the number two high-value drug personality in the town of Margosatubig and has a standing warrant of arrest for murder.

Galvez said earlier that Mangongaya is a member of "Pating," a drug syndicate operating in Zamboanga del Sur. (SunStar Philippines)