Caloocan City: Anti-drug operatives arrested two suspects and seized nearly PHP9 million worth of illegal drugs in two separate operations in Caloocan City and Sulu province.

According to Philippines News Agency, National Capital Region Police Office chief Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin announced the arrest of a suspect known as alias Boss, 54, during a buy-bust operation at Bagong Silang, Caloocan City early Monday morning. Confiscated from the suspect were 320 grams of shabu valued at PHP2.17 million and the buy-bust money.

Aberin emphasized that the NCRPO remains steadfast in its campaign against illegal drugs, reinforcing its commitment to a safer and drug-free community. He stated, “This successful operation proves our relentless fight against illegal drugs. Criminals who think they can operate without consequence are mistaken-we are watching, we are tracking, and we will take decisive action.”

In a related operation in Sulu, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives apprehended a suspect known as alias Den, 32, classified as a high-value individual, during a buy-bust at Barangay Tanduh Bato, Luuk on Sunday. Another suspect, identified as alias Dhas, evaded arrest by fleeing the scene on a motorcycle. Seized from the suspect was one kilogram of suspected shabu worth PHP6.8 million and other non-drug items.

The suspects are set to face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Meanwhile, police activities in Quezon City led to the arrest of 232 persons during intensified anti-illegal drugs and anti-crime operations conducted from Feb. 16 to 22. Quezon City Police District (QCPD) acting director Col. Melecio Buslig Jr. reported that the arrests, made during 47 operations, included 73 drug suspects, 71 wanted persons, 84 gamblers, and four individuals for illegal possession of firearms. Authorities also confiscated PHP3.24 million worth of illegal drugs. Buslig mentioned that the respective courts of origin have been notified of these arrests.