Weeklong Davao Operations Yield PHP3.7 Million in Illegal Drugs

Davao city: Law enforcement authorities here reported the confiscation of over PHP3.7 million worth of illegal drugs during a series of buy-bust operations conducted from Sept. 7 to 14. Col. Mannan Muarip, acting chief of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), said the weeklong campaign included 33 anti-drug operations, which resulted in the arrest of 37 suspects. Seized items included 152.91 grams of shabu, 23,104.81 grams of marijuana, and 62 vape cartridges containing marijuana oil.

According to Philippines News Agency, police estimates valued the shabu at PHP1.03 million, the marijuana at PHP2.7 million, and the marijuana oil at PHP3,100. Aside from anti-drug efforts, Muarip reported intensified operations against illegal gambling, leading to the apprehension of 22 individuals across 18 operations. Authorities confiscated PHP5,300 in bet money and filed 18 corresponding cases.

The DCPO also conducted 41 operations targeting wanted persons, resulting in the arrest of 41 individuals, including 18 classified as most wanted. Meanwhile, eight operations against loose firearms led to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of three unlicensed firearms.

‘These achievements reflect not only the dedication of the men and women of the DCPO but also the strong partnership with the community, barangay officials, and the local government unit,’ Muarip said.