General

PRO5 seizes P14-M illegal drugs, nabs 145 drug offenders in January


LEGAZPI: The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) seized some PHP14 million worth of illegal drugs and nabbed 145 drug personalities from 119 drug operations conducted by different police units in the Bicol region in January this year.

In a report on Friday, PRO5 spokesperson Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib said the apprehended drug violators comprised of 113 street-level individuals, 19 high-value targets and 13 newly identified offenders.

On the other hand, the seized illegal drugs include 18.86 grams of marijuana and 2,061.31 grams of shabu.

‘At least 135 cases have been filed against the suspects,’ Calubaquib said.

Meanwhile, authorities seized 17 bricks of dried marijuana leaves along with 30 grams of shabu, and arrested two suspects in a buy-bust operation in Zone 3, Nakar St., Barangay San Isidro, Iriga City on Feb. 1.

Calubaquib said the 17 marijuana bricks have an estimated value of PHP2.04 million while the 30 grams of shabu was valued at PHP204,000 — or a cumulative value of PHP2.2 million.

The a
rrested suspects were identified by the aliases ‘Ren,’ 45, and ‘Joe,’ 43, both residents of Calamba, Laguna.

Calubaquib said the arrested individuals and the seized pieces of evidence were promptly brought to the Iriga City Police Station for proper handling and disposition, while cases for violation of Republic Act 9165 are being processed against the suspects.

RA 9165 is known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

She said PRO5, under the leadership of regional director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, remains steadfast in its pursuit of a drug-free environment, and in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in the Bicol region.

‘PRO5 will continue to combat various forms of criminality, particularly the fight against illegal drugs,’ Calubaquib added.

Source: Philippines News Agency