LUCENA CITY — In a significant anti-drug operation, police arrested an alleged street drug pusher and seized P408,000 worth of shabu (crystal meth) early on Maundy Thursday, April 17, 2025. The operation, led by the local drug enforcement unit, highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crime in the region.
Lieutenant Colonel Dennis de Guzman, the Lucena City police chief, reported that the suspect, identified only as "Matar," 44, was apprehended after selling P500 worth of shabu to a poseur buyer in Barangay Cotta at 12:28 a.m. During the bust, authorities recovered six plastic sachets containing suspected meth, weighing a total of 20 grams, which has a street value of P408,000 at the current price of P20,400 per gram.
Police are currently investigating the source of the illegal drugs and have confirmed that Matar is listed as a street-level pusher on their watch list. He has been detained and is facing charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, in Lanao del Sur, authorities made another significant drug bust on the same day, arresting two high-value individuals (HVIs) and seizing P345,644 worth of suspected illegal drugs. Police Colonel Robert Daculan, the Lanao del Sur police director, reported that the suspects, a 38-year-old female and a 26-year-old male, were arrested in a buy-bust operation around 9 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, in Dimaluna village, Marawi City.
During the operation, law enforcement seized 50.83 grams of suspected shabu, along with two identification cards, buy-bust money, and a pouch. The confiscation was noted to be the second largest drug haul in Lanao del Sur since April 1, 2025, with the first occurring on April 10, when over P2 million worth of illegal drugs were seized, and a high-value target drug suspect was arrested in Barangay Sabala Manao Proper.
Police Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz, director of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, commended the efforts of the operatives involved. He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in the fight against drug-related crime, stating, "This successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated police work and community cooperation in our shared mission to ensure a drug-free Marawi."
Macapaz also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities, reinforcing the message that collective action is crucial in addressing the drug menace.
The recent operations in both Lucena City and Lanao del Sur reflect a broader commitment by law enforcement agencies across the Philippines to combat illegal drug trade and enhance public safety. As authorities continue to target high-value individuals and street-level dealers alike, the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking remain a pressing concern for communities nationwide.
As the investigations unfold, both local and national law enforcement agencies are expected to intensify their efforts to dismantle drug networks and apprehend those involved in the illegal drug trade. The public's cooperation and awareness will be critical in these ongoing efforts to foster safer environments.
In light of these developments, community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in the fight against drugs, as the consequences of this ongoing battle affect everyone.
