PNP nets most-wanted suspects, seizes P7.9M in drugs in major ops

The Philippine National Police (PNP) touted “major breakthroughs” in its nationwide law enforcement operations on Tuesday, apprehending seven of the country’s most wanted criminals, confiscating illegal drugs worth nearly P7.9 million, and intercepting P3 million in smuggled cigarettes.

PNP Chief P/LtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed the coordinated operations, which spanned multiple regions including Iligan City, Palawan, Zamboanga del Sur, Laguna, Quezon City, Cebu, and Masbate.

The arrested individuals face charges ranging from qualified rape and acts of lasciviousness to violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

In Davao City, a joint PNP-PDEA operation led to the arrest of a 53-year-old drug suspect and the seizure of 520 grams of shabu valued at P3,536,000.

Meanwhile, authorities in Valencia City, Bukidnon, apprehended two suspects from Lanao del Sur with 301.2 grams of shabu worth P2,048,160.

In Palawan, a concerned citizen turned over a 1.95-kilogram package of suspected high-grade marijuana (kush) found along the seashore of Malinong Beach Resort, with an estimated street value of P2,340,000. The total value of all seized drugs amounted to P7,924,160.

In a separate operation in Bukidnon, authorities intercepted a garbage truck carrying P3 million worth of smuggled San Marino cigarettes.

“These operations prove the PNP’s tireless efforts to bring lawbreakers to justice, from wanted persons to drug traffickers and smugglers. Every success like this means a safer neighborhood and a stronger nation,” Nartatez said.

The PNP said all arrested individuals and seized evidence are now under proper police custody pending further investigation and the filing of appropriate charges.