A man previously arrested in Laoag City for drug-related offenses was apprehended once again, this time with his live-in partner, during a buy-bust operation conducted in the early morning of 10 July in Barangay 10, Manalpac, Solsona.

Authorities identified the suspects as a 43-year-old man, a licensed civil engineer and resident of Barangay San Andres, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, and his live-in partner, 43, an unemployed native of Zamboanga del Sur. Both were temporarily residing in Solsona.

The buy-bust operation, which began at 6:46 AM, was carried out by joint personnel from the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), Solsona Municipal Police Station (MPS), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). The suspects allegedly conspired in selling one sachet of suspected shabu to an undercover agent, resulting in their immediate arrest.

Law enforcers recovered approximately 3 grams of suspected shabu contained in 13 heat-sealed plastic sachets with an estimated street value of ₱20,400. Also seized were non-drug evidence including one genuine and five counterfeit ₱1,000 bills used as buy-bust money, a red Mentos tin can, an improvised scoop, a dark brown leather wallet, and personal cash.

The suspect had previously been arrested on 4 February 2025 in Barangay 56-B, Laoag City, in possession of 5.3 grams of suspected shabu and live ammunition. Following that arrest, he entered into a plea bargaining agreement and was placed under probation at the time of his second arrest.

Police said the operation was properly documented using alternative video recording devices, with the inventory and marking of seized evidence conducted in the presence of the suspects and mandatory witnesses, as required by law.

Charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are now being prepared against both suspects.