Baao: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 in Bicol reported the arrest of three high-value individuals, including a police corporal, and the seizure of illegal drugs valued at over PHP2 million during separate operations on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda stated that the police corporal, caught possessing suspected shabu, faces criminal and administrative complaints. The corporal, assigned to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section of the Philippine National Police - Highway Patrol Group, is a resident of Baao, Camarines Sur. Authorities seized four heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu from him, weighing approximately 16.8 grams and valued at PHP114,240.
Brig. Gen. Miranda emphasized the ongoing and uncompromising nature of operations against illegal drugs, asserting that no one is above the law and that any PNP personnel violating the law will be held accountable. He remarked that PNP-Bicol will not allow rogue elements to tarnish the force's integrity and those who betray public trust will face justice without exception.
In a separate operation in Minalabac, also in Camarines Sur, two individuals were arrested. The suspects, identified by aliases Mar and Louie, were found with three knot-tied transparent plastic bags containing 300 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of PHP2,040,000. The suspects and the seized items are now under the custody of the Minalabac Municipal Police for proper disposition. The evidence was marked and inventoried on-site in the presence of the suspects and an inspecting witness.
The arrested individuals will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Brig. Gen. Miranda commended the team, highlighting the operation as a reflection of the PNP's intelligence-driven approach in targeting high-value individuals and repeat offenders. He concluded by stating that the arrest sends a clear message that no one involved in the drug trade, regardless of status, is beyond the reach of the law and that accountability will be enforced to ensure community safety.
