Three individuals linked to the illegal drug trade were arrested on August 6, 2026, in Cotabato City, with authorities recovering approximately P6.8 million worth of shabu during a buy-bust operation.
Details of the Arrest
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) identified the suspects as Nori, 44; Bai, 32; and Tato, 36, all residents of Cotabato City.
The suspects are involved in the illegal drugs trade in Cotabato City and nearby towns.
PDEA-BARMM
During the operation in Rosary Heights 3 village, law enforcement officials seized one kilogram of shabu packed in a transparent plastic bag, along with other items including two cellular phones, a minivan, and various identification documents.
- One kilogram of shabu valued at P6.8 million
- Two cellular phones
- A minivan
- One ATM card and buy-bust money
The suspects face charges under Section 5 of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which pertains to the sale of dangerous drugs.
This operation was executed by the PDEA Maguindanao del Norte Provincial Office, receiving assistance from various law enforcement agencies, including the Marine Battalion Landing Team-6 and local police units.
Context of Drug Operations in the Region
The recent arrests highlight the ongoing efforts by law enforcement in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to combat drug trafficking, a persistent issue that poses challenges to community safety and health.