MANILA – Authorities seized PHP631.10 million worth of illegal drugs and arrested 135 suspects in nationwide operations on Oct. 1 to 7, according to a Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) news release Monday.
The PDEA said it conducted 84 anti-drug operations during the period, including buy-busts, interdiction activities, marijuana eradication, search and seizure operations, and the implementation of search warrants.
The operations resulted in the arrest of 74 alleged drug pushers, 34 drug den visitors or clients, 14 drug den maintainers or owners, eight drug den employees and five drug possessors.
The suspects will face charges under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Seized were 90,938.70 grams of shabu; 12,257.32 grams of marijuana kush; 2,241.86 grams of dried marijuana leaves; 5,500 marijuana seedlings; 1,000 marijuana plants; and 200 grams of ketamine.
The PDEA said the confiscated items were placed in government custody for forensic examination and will be presented as evidence in court.
PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez stressed the importance of sustained enforcement in holding drug personalities accountable and disrupting the illegal drug trade.
He also urged the public to support the agency’s efforts.
“The fight against illegal drugs requires the collective efforts of law enforcement agencies and the public. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and to work with authorities in reporting illegal drug activities,” he said in a news release.
“Through sustained cooperation, we can protect our communities, particularly our children and youth, from the harmful effects of dangerous drugs,”
