By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — A suspected high-value drug personality was arrested during a buy-bust operation conducted by law enforcement authorities in Barangay Lucille Este, Malasiqui, Pangasinan, in the early hours of Sunday.
The operation was carried out by the Anti-Illicit Drug Enforcement Special Operations Unit 1 in coordination with the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, Provincial Intelligence Team, and the Malasiqui Municipal Police Station.
According to Malasiqui Chief of Police Lt. Col. Francisco, an undercover police officer acted as the poseur-buyer and successfully purchased two plastic sachets containing suspected shabu from the suspect.
Authorities said the confiscated illegal drugs weighed approximately 60 grams and carried an estimated street value of P400,000.
Following the transaction, operatives immediately moved in to arrest the suspect. Police said the individual attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended by pursuing officers.
Recovered from the scene were the marked money used in the operation and the suspected shabu, which will serve as evidence in the filing of criminal charges.
The suspect is facing charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
He is currently detained at the Malasiqui Police Station while authorities prepare the necessary documentation and formal charges.
Police officials said the arrest forms part of the continuing anti-drug campaign in Pangasinan aimed at dismantling the illegal drug trade and maintaining peace and order in local communities.
ia/xf
