By Jennifer P. Rendon
Authorities seized over PHP 2.8 million worth of suspected shabu in an anti-narcotics operation in Barangay Santiago, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, on the afternoon of January 11.
The suspect, identified only as “Alias Rodcel,” 38, was arrested at his home by members of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office – Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (IPPO-PDEU) Team 3, in coordination with the Barotac Viejo Municipal Police Station and the IPPO Provincial Intelligence Unit.
Police said Rodcel was caught selling a sachet of suspected shabu worth PHP 21,000 during a buy-bust operation.
Upon frisking, authorities recovered 11 more sachets of suspected shabu, along with other non-drug items.
According to Major Dadje Delima, IPPO-PDEU chief, the confiscated drugs weighed approximately 415 grams, with an estimated street value of PHP 2,822,000.
Rodcel had no previous drug-related arrests and was not included in Oplan Tokhang, a government initiative targeting drug suspects.
Reports revealed that the suspect allegedly sourced his supply through contacts linked to the New Bilibid Prison. He reportedly picked up the contraband in Sigma, Capiz.
His distribution network reportedly covered Iloilo City, Aklan, and Estancia town in Iloilo province.
Police are conducting further investigations to trace the suspect’s suppliers and connections.
