Arrested. INQUIRER.net stock photo
MANILA, Philippines — Seven suspected drug peddlers were arrested in three separate anti-crime operations in Cebu City and Zamboanga City, which also led to the confiscation of more than P15.8 million worth of crystal methamphetamine, locally known as “shabu,” and smuggled cigarettes.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said in a statement Thursday that three suspects identified as Rulan Mercado, Reynaldo Ardina, and Ryan Zanoria were arrested in Barangay Bacayan, Cebu City, where law enforcers confiscated more than a kilo of shabu valued at P7,145,440.
The fourth suspect, John Mark Cuizon, was arrested in Barangay Suba and Cebu City. He likewise yielded more than a kilo of shabu with an estimated cost of P7,418,120.
In Zamboanga City, the PNP said government agents collared three men in Manalipa Island as they were caught carrying unauthorized items during an anti-crime operation at sea.
Its Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company personnel, in cooperation with the Bureau of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (IIS) and Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) nabbed suspects Arjay Salim, 35; Jabar Tingkaha, 28; and Asmad Tingkahan, 43. The suspects had more than P1,260,000 worth of allegedly smuggled cigarettes, authorities said.
“Tulong-tulong tayo sa adhikain na makamtan ang payapang pamumuhay sa mga pamayanan. We are glad to see a great display of tight cooperation among stakeholders. This is a display of a unified goal to achieve lasting peace and every effort must be taken to ensure that this can be attained,” said PNP chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. — Trisha Manalaysay, trainee
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