Manila: The police seized PHP431 million worth of illegal drugs in separate operations across the country in one day on Sept. 14, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. stated that the largest single operation took place at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Authorities intercepted 15 abandoned inbound parcels containing approximately 28.324 kilograms of suspected shabu, 4.746 kilograms of kush or high-grade marijuana, and 122 kilograms of suspected liquid shabu, with a combined estimated value of PHP382.72 million.
In Taytay, Rizal, a joint operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of approximately 6 kilograms of suspected shabu valued at PHP40.8 million, as well as one M16 rifle and four .45-caliber pistols.
Meanwhile, separate police operations in Cagayan de Oro City led to the arrest of two suspects and the confiscation of 160 grams of suspected shabu worth PHP1.09 million. An anti-illegal drug operation in Mountain Province resulted in the discovery and destruction of approximately 35,000 fully grown marijuana plants valued at PHP7.2 million, although no cultivator was arrested during the operation.
PNP chief Gen. Nartatez emphasized the importance of being alert, coordinated, and proactive in intercepting illegal drugs before they reach communities. He reiterated the ongoing efforts to strengthen operations that protect the public.
In another development, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) sustained its campaign against illegal fishing, arresting 118 individuals in 80 operations conducted across Western Visayas from Sept. 1-15. These operations led to the confiscation of fish, fishing paraphernalia, and other equipment valued at PHP10.895 million, as reported by Western Visayas police chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tua±o.
Brig. Gen. Tua±o highlighted the commitment of police units to protecting marine resources and supporting communities reliant on lawful fishing activities. He stressed the importance of sustained enforcement and cooperation from communities to address illegal fishing and safeguard the livelihoods of legitimate fisherfolk.
