An incumbent barangay councilor and two other high-value individuals were arrested in a buy-bust operation that led to the dismantling of a drug den in Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, on Friday afternoon, March 20.
Operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office conducted the operation at around 2:35 p.m. in Sitio Nagbagang, Brgy. Poblacion.
Police identified the suspects as alias “Daniel,” 29, a barangay councilor and alleged drug den maintainer; alias “Alex,” 27; and alias “Sheldon,” 23.
Another suspect identified as alias “Joseph” remains at large and is the subject of a manhunt.
Authorities said the operation stemmed from intelligence reports linking the group to illegal drug activities in the area.
Operatives seized about 20 grams of suspected shabu worth P200,000, a Glock 43 firearm with live ammunition, buy-bust money, and drug paraphernalia.
Police said the arrest of the suspects, including an elected official, underscores the intensified campaign against illegal drugs regardless of status or position.
Charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 and illegal possession of firearm and ammunition are being prepared against the suspects.*
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