The arrest of five suspected big-time drug trafficker with links to the slain former mayor of Talitay, Maguindanao is a serious blow to the illegal drugs operations in Metro Manila, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Tuesday, June 22.
The operation was a follow-up after the arrest and later death of Montasir Sabal who yielded multi-million worth of shabu at the Batangas Port last week. He was later killed after he allegedly grabbed the firearm of one of his escort while he was being transported to Camp Crame in Quezon City.
Those arrested in the follow-up were Tamano Daud, Ismael Daud, Norma Maguid, Bainor Maguid, and Omar Rediya. Seized from them were 8.533 kilograms of shabu or methamphetamine hydrochloride worth P58.024 million, a Glock17 9mm pistol, a Kossnor London Chrome Caliber .45 pistol, assorted ammunition, and drug paraphernalia
“I commend the operating units that made this drug operation a success. This shows that the cooperation between the PNP and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in stopping the proliferation of illegal drugs remains unwavering,” Eleazar said.
They are reportedly members of the Tamano Drug Group, which supplies narcotics to the National Capital Region and Rizal Province, and are said to have connections with Sabal.
Sabal, who was in the National Watch List on illegal drugs, was also said to be a supplier of firearms and explosive materials to the local terror group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
Eleazar said that the five suspects have been charged with violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 as well as illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.