FOUR high-value individuals (HVIs) were arrested in separate anti-drug operations by the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (Ippo) in the municipalities of Dumangas and Estancia.
Authorities seized more than P1.4 million worth of suspected shabu during the operations on April 24, 2025.
Ippo Director Police Colonel Bayani M. Razalan lauded the Station Drug Enforcement Teams (SDET) of the Dumangas and Estancia Municipal Police Stations (MPS) for their efficient execution of the operations.
“We will not allow illegal drugs to gain a foothold in Iloilo. This arrest is a testament to our relentless efforts in combating illegal drugs, and we will persist in our pursuit of those who engage in such activities,” said Razalan.
In Dumangas, the Station Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) of the Dumangas MPS apprehended three residents of Barangay Tabucan around 2 p.m.
The operation targeted alias Aming, 39, classified as an HVI in the illegal drug trade.
He had been previously arrested and was recently released from jail four months prior, undergoing probation. Two other suspects, identified as alias Alfon, 23, single, and alias Kiki, 23, with a live-in partner, were also arrested during the operation. All suspects are residents of Barangay Tabucan.
Authorities conducted intensive surveillance following tips from concerned citizens. The operation led to the confiscation of approximately 150 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P1,020,000.
In Estancia, the SDET of the Estancia MPS apprehended another HVI during an anti-drug operation around 12:40 a.m. in Purok 3, Barangay Bulaqueña. The suspect, alias John, 39, single, and a laborer, was caught with approximately 69.07 grams of suspected shabu valued at P469,676.
Intelligence reports indicated that alias John had been under surveillance for nearly two months. He allegedly sourced illegal drugs from Iloilo City and Capiz, and his home was suspected to be used as a drug den.
“This operation is part of our intensified campaign during the election season,” said Razalan. “We are doubling down on our anti-illegal drugs campaign to prevent criminal elements from disrupting peace and order in our communities.”
The suspects, Aming, Alfon, Kiki and John, are in the custody of the Dumangas and Estancia MPS and face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)