A 42-year-old farmer previously linked to a firearms operation in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, was arrested in a buy-bust operation on the afternoon of 20 May 2025, in Barangay 30, Baoa West, Batac City.

The suspect, Mahnoel Opilas Revilla, a native of Barangay Medina, Dingras and now residing in Batac, was caught selling suspected shabu to an undercover operative in a barangay previously declared drug-cleared. He was apprehended by the Batac City Police Station under PLTCOL Adrian L. Gayuchan, with assistance from other units.

Authorities seized over a gram of suspected shabu valued at around ₱6,800, along with other non-drug items. Revilla underwent medical examination and is set to face charges for violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act) and Republic Act 10591 (Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).

Revilla had also been the subject of a search warrant operation on 23 April 2025, at his former residence in Barangay Medina, Dingras. The operation, led by the Dingras Municipal Police Station with the PIU and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, resulted in the recovery of a .38 caliber revolver, ammunition, and suspected drug paraphernalia. However, Revilla was not at the house during the operation and was not taken into custody at that time.

Police have since confirmed that he is the same individual now arrested in Batac and facing fresh criminal charges.