PDEA seizes over P1-M shabu in Maguindanao del Sur; 5 arrested

Illegal drugs, shabu paraphernalia and firearms were seized during anti-drug buy bust in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024.
(Photo courtesy of PDEA-BARMM)

COTABATO CITY—Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents, backed by the military and police, seized on Saturday over P1 million worth of shabu and arrested five drug suspects in two separate operations in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur.

PDEA – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM), Regional Director Gil Cesario Castro  said the first operation in Ambadao village led to the confiscation of 17 pieces of heat-sealed sachets of suspected shabu, worth an estimated P516,800.

The four suspects arrested were known only as Dido, who maintained the drug den, Jojo, Anton, and Jerry.

Also seized were assorted paraphernalia, two mobile phones, five notebooks containing a list of transactions, cut pieces of plastic teabags and identification cards.

Illegal drugs, shabu paraphernalia and firearms were seized during anti-drug buy bust in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024. (Photo courtesy of PDEA-BARMM)

Another 17 sachets of suspected meth were seized in the operation in Barangay Montay, and the arrest of a certain Akad Lampay, said to be a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Castro said Lampay’s companion, identified only as Markay, was able to elude arrest.

Also recovered from Lampay were assorted drug paraphernalia, an M60 rifle, a Browning automatic rifle and and assorted ammunition.

The five arrested suspects and Markay will be charged with violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and additional charges for illegal possession firearms and ammunition against Lampay and Markay.

Castro lauded the support provided by police and military units as well as support and information provided by the locals.

“This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of the Philippine Army, PNP, and local government units in upholding the law and ensuring the safety of the community, free from the illegal drug menace,” Castro said in a statement.