PNP NorMin nets ₱714K worth of shabu, nabs high-value suspect

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Police seized ₱714,000 worth of suspected shabu and arrested a high-value individual during a joint buy-bust operation in Barangay 35, Cagayan de Oro City, at around 10:35 p.m. on 5 November 2026.

Police Regional Office 10 (PRO 10) Director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. identified the suspect as alias “Atang,” 42, and a resident of the area.

The operation was led by the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) Team 1, in coordination with several units of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO), the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 10.

Authorities confiscated nine heat-sealed plastic sachets containing approximately 105 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated standard drug price of ₱714,000.

Also seized were a red sling bag, a touchscreen cellphone, a motorcycle, and ₱1,000 in marked buy-bust money.

The suspect is currently detained at the Maharlika Custodial Facility, while the confiscated substances will be submitted to the Regional Forensic Unit 10 for qualitative and quantitative examination.

Charges for violating Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, will be filed against the suspect.

Babagay said the operation reflected the police force's continuing efforts to intensify its campaign against illegal drugs through intelligence-driven operations and coordination with partner agencies.

“We will continue to pursue individuals involved in the illegal drug trade, particularly those identified as high-value targets,” Babagay said.