LAWMEN have seized around P13.6 million worth of illegal drugs as they arrested an individual in a joint anti-drug operation in Lanao del Sur, an official said Monday, June 23, 2025.
Gil Cesario Castro, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-Barmm) director, identified the arrested suspect as alias Orak, 21, a resident of Cairatan village, Malundo, Lanao del Sur.
Castro said Orak was arrested in a joint buy-bust launched by PDEA-Barmm with the support of police and military operatives around 1 p.m. Sunday, June 22, in Banggolo Poblacion village, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.
"This successful operation exemplifies the strength of inter-agency collaboration and the unwavering commitment of PDEA to rid the Bangsamoro region of illegal drugs," Castro said.
Seized from the suspects were two kilos of substance believed to be shabu worth P13,600,000, buy-bust money, various drug paraphernalia, a mobile phone, identification cards, and a motorcycle that is believed to be used in the suspect's illegal drug business.
Castro said the suspect is now under the custody of the PDEA-Barmm jail facility in preparation for the filing of charges against him for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
He urged the public to support their campaign against illegal drugs and to report suspicious drug-related activities in their communities.
Police Colonel Caezar Cabuhat, Lanao del Sur police director, commended the dedication and coordination of all operating units involved in the successful anti-drug operation.
"This accomplishment reflects our shared commitment to eradicate illegal drugs and protect our communities. Together, we will continue to pursue a drug-free Lanao del Sur," Cabuhat added. (SunStar Zamboanga)