P816-M SHABU SEIZED IN MINDORO

A PHILIPPINE Drug Enforcement Agency-led anti-narcotics operation inside the Calapan Port in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro on Friday led to the arrest of a “high-value” suspect and the confiscation of some 120 kilograms of shabu worth at least P816 million.

Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-B (Mimaropa) chief Brig. Roger Quesada said the suspect, identified only as alias “Christopher,” 43, of Bgy. Polo Maestra Bita, was arrested at about 8 a.m. on Friday.

Authorities said the suspected shabu in 120 sealed packages concealed inside two luggages and five travel bags were found inside a vehicle being driven by the suspect from Oton, Iloilo.

The Toyota Camry used by the suspect to transport the drugs was impounded by the PDEA.

The suspect’s mobile phone was also confiscated and will be subjected to a digital forensic examination to determine the drug smuggler’s contacts.

The accused will be facing non-bailable charges for violation of Section 5 (Transportation of Illegal Drugs) and Section 11 (Possession of Illegal Drugs), Article II of Republic Act 9165 or The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Quesada lauded what he called a successful interdiction operation by the law enforcement agencies that also included the Philippine Coast Guard and the Calapan City Police Station.

“I commend the dedication and teamwork of PDEA-Mimaropa, our PNP units, and other law enforcement partners for this significant ac-complishment,” said Quesada in a statement.

“This successful operation is a testament to the effectiveness of our intensified interagency collaboration,” he added.