Bacolod city: Information coursed through the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center has led to the arrest of two persons and the recovery of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of PHP2.04 million in this highly urbanized city, the Police Regional Office – Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported on Tuesday. The suspects were identified as ‘Ni±o,’ 23, and ‘Steph,’ 21, both residents of Purok Saturn, Barangay Handumanan. They were arrested during a buy-bust conducted by operatives of the Bacolod City Police City Drug Enforcement Unit at Deca Homes Subdivision in Barangay Cabug on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-NIR Director Arnold Thomas Ibay emphasized the importance of community collaboration in combating illegal drugs. He noted that every tip and act of vigilance enhances their efforts to maintain neighborhood safety. Residents had observed numerous individuals riding motorcycles in their area every night, which raised suspicions. A confidential informant revealed that ‘Ni±o’ was actively involved in the illegal drug trade in several barangays, particularly in Mansilingan and Handumanan.

Following intensive surveillance that confirmed the suspect’s illegal activities, a buy-bust operation was executed with the informant’s assistance. The suspects face charges under Article II, Section 5, Section 11, and Section 26 of Republic Act 9165, known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The Office of the President – Citizens’ Complaint Center was established to allow citizens to report complaints and grievances related to government actions, including red tape and corruption.