Quiet but deliberate: Over P176 M worth of illegal drugs seized in Taguig buy-bust
Anti-narcotics operatives of the Philippine National Police (PNP) seized around P176.2 million worth of illegal drugs following the arrest of five suspected drug pushers in a buy-bust in Taguig City on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said the operation stemmed from the confirmed intelligence reports about the proliferation of shabu and marijuana through a small group of drug pushers.
A buy-bust was then mapped out which resulted in the confiscation of around 27.27 kilos of illegal drugs and paraphernalia and the arrest of five men, whom the police described as high-value targets in the drug watchlist, in Purok 5 in Barangay Napindan.
Among those seized were 25.5 kilograms of suspected shabu worth P173.4 million, around 1.77 kilograms of suspected high-grade marijuana (kush) valued at P2.655 million, and 140 pieces of marijuana oil cartridges worth P210,000.
“This operation is highly significant. With more than 27.27 kilos of illegal drugs taken off the streets, thousands of Filipinos were saved from illegal drug use. This is not just about arrests and confiscation of illegal drugs. This is also about protecting our communities, especially the youth, and enforcing the rule of law,” said Nartatez.
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All seized items were properly inventoried and documented, with alternative recording devices utilized to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the operation.
Sense of direction
The successful operation was deemed as a quieter but more deliberate approach which prioritizes operations, discipline, and outcomes.
The operation was carried out by the PNP’s Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) against the five suspects who were allegedly playing key roles in an organized drug distribution network.
Nartatez said the seizure of the illegal drugs effectively disrupted a major drug supply line intended for Metro Manila and nearby provinces. He then lauded his men for the successful operation.
Nartatez earlier specified the policy direction to each PNP unit and directed them to produce results. “The result of this operation was not accidental. It came from preparation, discipline, and leadership that stays focused on execution.”