PNP reports P1.36-B smuggling haul, P710.66-M drug seizures in September

The Philippine National Police reported major seizures and arrests in September as it sustained nationwide operations against illegal drugs, smuggling, loose firearms and wanted persons.

From 1 to 30 September, police conducted 5,045 anti-drug operations that led to 5,812 arrests and the seizure of illegal drugs worth an estimated ₱710.66 million.

Confiscated items included about 96.42 kilograms of shabu, 108.28 kilograms of dried marijuana leaves and 28,675 marijuana plants.

The PNP also arrested 8,447 wanted persons, including 2,254 listed as most wanted.

In operations against loose firearms, 979 people were arrested while 6,381 firearms were recovered, surrendered or confiscated. Another 913 firearms were turned in for safekeeping.

Police also carried out 3,140 anti-smuggling operations, resulting in 564 arrests and the confiscation of goods and machinery worth an estimated ₱1.36 billion.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the figures reflected the force’s focus on intelligence-led and lawful operations.

“The numbers matter, but what matters more is how we get those results,” Nartatez said.

He said the operations form part of the PNP’s Enhanced Managing Police Operations strategy, which directs personnel and resources toward priority public-safety concerns.