Two individuals were arrested Saturday night in a buy-bust operation conducted by the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).

P/Lt. Col. Joseph dela Cruz, station commander of PS 11 (Galas), identified the suspects as Kavin Joseph Elefante, a Lalamove rider and Chinny Urmenita, both residents of Barangay Damayang Lagi.

Initial reports disclosed that the operation took place at 11:30 p.m. last 15 February 2025, along 14th Street near the corner of Sta. Cecilia Street, Barangay Damayang Lagi.

An undercover police officer acted as the poseur buyer, purchasing P500 worth of shabu and following the transaction, police operatives moved in and apprehended the suspects.

Authorities confiscated 15 grams of shabu, estimated to be worth P102,000.

Officers also seized a light orange Vivo cellphone, a white Honda Click 160 motorcycle, a black Honda Click remote key and the P500 used in the buy-bust.

A subsequent verification through the Investigation Solution Automatic Verification system revealed that Elefante had a prior offense in 2023 for violating Republic Act 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

The connection between the prior offense and the current drug charges was not immediately clear.

The suspects will be charged with violating Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which covers offenses related to the possession, sale, and distribution of illegal drugs. The charges carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.

Meantime, the QCPD stressed its ongoing commitment to combating illegal drugs in Quezon City and urged public cooperation.

“The QCPD remains firm in its commitment in eradicating illegal drugs in the city and urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help maintain peace and order,” said QCPD acting director P/Col. Melecio Buslig Jr.