Baguio City: Four individuals, including a police officer assigned here, were arrested in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Dontogan on Tuesday, with approximately 20 kilograms of shabu worth PHP136 million seized.

According to Philippines News Agency, Col. Ruel Tagel, Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) Director, reported that additional items confiscated at the scene included a firearm, various identification documents, mobile phones, and other pieces of evidence. "This operation was the result of extensive intelligence gathering," Tagel stated.

Col. Tagel emphasized that the BCPO will not tolerate illegal activities within their ranks. He reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that those who break the law face consequences. This operation, he noted, sends a strong message of their resolve to uphold public trust and enhance the professionalism of the police force.

The police officer involved will face administrative charges and potential dismissal from service if found guilty, Tagel added. He also mentioned that the BCPO regularly implements the Police Information and Continuing Education program, which includes random drug testing to ensure law enforcers' non-engagement in illegal activities.

The arrested individuals will be charged for violations of various provisions of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, including the selling and possession of illegal drugs. The operation was a joint effort conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Philippine National Police.