By Xander Ledesma
The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) seized an estimated 211 grams of suspected shabu (methamphetamine) valued at PHP1.4 million and arrested eight individuals during a series of anti-drug operations conducted between November 30 and December 1, 2024.
The operations, which targeted known drug hotspots in Antique, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, and Iloilo City, involved multiple police units working together to disrupt local drug networks. Among those apprehended was one high-value target, while the other seven suspects were identified as street-level drug dealers.
The arrests took place during coordinated buy-bust operations, which also resulted in the confiscation of the illegal drugs. Law enforcement authorities emphasized the importance of apprehending high-value targets as part of their strategy to dismantle larger drug syndicates and reduce the proliferation of illegal drugs in the region.
The suspects, now in custody, are facing charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Investigations are ongoing to uncover any connections to broader drug trafficking operations. The operation involved the participation of several police divisions in Western Visayas. The Antique Police Provincial Office made one arrest, while the Iloilo Police Provincial Office also apprehended one suspect. The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office and the Iloilo City Police Office each arrested three individuals.
The initiative reflects PRO-6’s ongoing dedication to reducing drug-related crimes in Western Visayas, a region that has been identified as a key area for illegal drug activity due to its proximity to transit routes. The influx of illegal drugs into the region has posed a significant challenge for law enforcement, making such operations a critical aspect of public safety efforts.
Brigadier General Jack L. Wanky, Director of Police Regional Office 6, praised the collaborative efforts and thorough intelligence work that contributed to the success of the operations. He reiterated the commitment of law enforcement to combat illegal drugs and protect the safety of communities across Western Visayas.