Operatives of the Northern Police District (NPD), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), confiscated laboratory materials believed to be used in manufacturing shabu, along with chemical substances, during the implementation of a search warrant on Saturday in Caloocan City.
Police implemented the warrant issued by Hon. Rodolfo Azucena dated 23 January 2026 of RTC Branch 125 Caloocan.
The search yielded two containers of liquid chemical substances believed to be phenylacetone, a controlled precursor and essential chemical under RA 9165, with an aggregate volume of approximately 20 liters and a total estimated weight of 16.95 kilograms valued at P10,000,500.
Also recovered were various laboratory-grade equipment, including large glass flasks, separatory funnels, electric heating mantles, a stainless steel heating and mixing base unit, and other related paraphernalia intended for illegal drug manufacturing.
Present during the raid were the city mayor, acting NPD district director, chief of police of Caloocan City, barangay officials, and media representatives who served as witnesses to ensure transparency and adherence to legal requirements.
The entire operation was documented through body-worn cameras and other alternative recording devices operated by PNP personnel.
Based on interviews, the discovery of the shabu laboratory stemmed from complaints of neighbors in the area about foul-smelling smoke emitted from the rented facility.
The house owner reportedly had no knowledge of the suspects’ activities, as she was made to believe that the area would be used for sorting parcels from online orders.
No suspects were arrested inside the rented space, which led police to forcibly open the premises.
Police said they have identified the suspects and are conducting follow-up manhunt operations.