Cops net P18 million marijuana, nab a high-value target in Bulacan sting

HIGH-GRADE Police officers seize 24 pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic packs of dried leaves suspected to be high-grade marijuana weighing around 12 kg., with an estimated street value of P18 million, in an anti-drug operation Saturday (Oct. 26, 2024) in Balagtas, Bulacan. Police also arrested a 40-year-old man tagged as a high-value individual. (Photo courtesy of PDEG)

MANILA, Philippines — Police officers arrested a high-value individual (HVI) and seized around P18 million worth of high-grade marijuana in a drug operation in Balagtas, Bulacan on Saturday.

Philippine National Police-Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) chief Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta said the unnamed suspect, a resident of Marilao, Bulacan, was arrested at about 3:15 p.m. in Northville 6, Barangay Santol, Balagtas, Bulacan.

The suspect yielded 24 pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic packs containing dried leaves suspected to be high-grade marijuana weighing around 12 kg. and other pieces of evidence.

“Our team’s successful operation has significantly disrupted drug distribution in the region, resulting in an arrest and substantial drug seizures,” Matta said.

“This success not only affects the drug trade but also contributes to a safer and healthier community. We will continue to monitor and address this kind of illegal trade,” he added.

The operation was carried out by the joint elements of PDEG, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the local police.

The suspect is currently in custody of Balagtas Municipal Police Station.

The drugs will be transferred to the Bulacan Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination while the other seized materials are being held by the PDEG for proper disposition. (PNA)