(Photo by Police Regional Office 8)
LEYTE — Police arrested a 25-year-old man classified as a high-value individual and seized about Php 890,800 worth of suspected shabu and a firearm during a buy-bust operation in Tanauan, Leyte, on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
Police Regional Office 8 identified the suspect only by the alias “Marco,” a resident of Palo, Leyte.
The operation was conducted by the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 8, together with the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit of the Leyte Police Provincial Office and Tanauan Municipal Police Station.
Police said four heat-sealed plastic sachets containing approximately 131 grams of suspected shabu were recovered during the operation. The drugs had an estimated value of Php 890,800 based on the Dangerous Drugs Board valuation.
Authorities also seized a .45-caliber Colt M1911 pistol, one magazine and four rounds of live ammunition.
The suspected drugs, firearm and other evidence were secured for documentation and proper disposition. The seized substances will also be subjected to laboratory examination.
Police said charges are being prepared against the suspect for alleged violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, covering the sale and possession of illegal drugs.
He is also expected to face a complaint for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
PRO 8 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño commended the operating units, saying the arrest was part of intensified operations against illegal drugs and other public safety threats in Eastern Visayas.
