By Matthew Go
Quezon police arrested a suspected drug trafficker in Quezon province and confiscated over PHP 20.7 million worth of crystal methamphetamine, or “shabu,” during a buy-bust operation on Tuesday evening, authorities said.
The suspect, identified only as “Joel,” 33, was apprehended in Barangay Rizal, Tagkawayan town, Quezon after allegedly selling ₱7,000 worth of shabu to an undercover police officer, according to Colonel Ruben Lacuesta, Quezon police chief.
Police recovered 1.015 kilograms of shabu in a plastic bag and several sachets. The Dangerous Drugs Board estimated the drugs’ value at PHP 20.7 million based on prevailing street prices.
A motorcycle reportedly used in the suspect’s drug activities was also seized.
The suspect, a resident of the area, is on the police drug watchlist and is classified as a high-value individual, according to Lacuesta. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the seized drugs.
Joel is in police custody and faces charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
This operation follows another recent drug bust in Sariaya, Quezon, where police seized a kilogram of shabu in a similar operation.
Police said efforts to combat illegal drugs in the province remain active.