TACLOBAN CITY – A tricycle driver tagged as a high-value drug personality was arrested during a buy-bust operation that yielded P1.2 million worth of suspected shabu in Brgy. 96, Calanipawan, early morning Tuesday, July 8.
The suspect, identified as alias “Cesar,” 53, married, and a resident of the same barangay, was apprehended at around 4:32 a.m. by operatives of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group – Special Operations Unit 8 (PDEG-SOU 8).
According to PLt. Col. Arturo Fullero, SOU 8 chief, Cesar is listed as a Regional Priority Target and considered a high-value individual (HVI) in the region’s anti-drug campaign.
Seized from the suspect was a sachet of suspected shabu worth P34,000, followed by the discovery of a transparent pouch inside his sling bag containing 180 more sachets of the same white crystalline substance. The total weight was estimated at 180 grams, with a street value of P1,224,000.
Authorities also recovered P34,000 buy-bust money, including one marked bill; 67 pieces of boodle money; transparent plastic pouch and the suspect’s voter’s ID.
The suspect was informed of his arrest and constitutional rights in a language he fully understood.
Charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165) have been filed before the Tacloban City Prosecutor’s Office. The suspect is currently awaiting transfer to the BJMP.
(ROBERT DEJON)
