Policemen in Angeles City seized over ₱1.7 million worth of suspected shabu and arrested a "high-value" drug personality during a recent buy-bust operation.
The suspect was named only as “Gilagid,” 43, of Barangay Sta. Cruz, Porac, Pampanga.
Gilagid was caught beneath the Abacan Bridge in Barangay Ninoy Aquino around 9 am on Holy Thursday.
The suspect had been under surveillance as part of intensified anti-drug efforts in Central Luzon, police said.
The cops confiscated from the suspect 255 grams of shabu worth ₱1,734,000, one marked ₱1,000 bill, seven pieces of ₱1,000 boodle money used in the operation, and an olive green sling bag.
Gilagid is now under the custody of Police Station 6 and faces charges for violating Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Brigadier General Jean S. Fajardo, director of Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), lauded the swift operation of her men in Angeles.
“This arrest sends a resounding message: there is no safe haven for drug traffickers in Central Luzon,” said Fajardo.
“Even during Holy Week, our men and women in uniform remain relentless in their mission to keep our communities drug-free. I commend the Angeles City Police Office for their precise execution and dedication," she added.
Fajardo stressed the commitment of PRO3 to dismantle drug networks and protect the youth from the clutches of addiction.
“We will not let up. We will find you, arrest you, and hold you accountable,” Fajardo warned drug syndicates. “We also call on the public to be our partners in this fight. Your vigilance and cooperation are powerful weapons in defeating this menace.”