Valenzuela gov't backs PDEA, police in P6.6-B drug lab bust
By Hannah Nicol
The Valenzuela City government reaffirmed its intensified anti-drug campaign after authorities dismantled a clandestine drug laboratory and seized around P6.6 billion worth of suspected shabu in Barangay Veinte Reales on Sunday, Feb. 22.
Valenzuela gov’t backs PDEA, police in P6.6-B drug lab bust (Photo from Valenzuela PIO)
According to the city’s Public Information Office, the operation was led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in coordination with the Valenzuela City Police Station (VCPS), with support from the local government.
A buy-bust operation resulted in the arrest of a high-value target (HVT) who allegedly sold about 500 grams of suspected shabu worth P3.4 million to an undercover operative.
The transaction led authorities to uncover a suspected drug laboratory operating in the area.
In a follow-up raid, operatives confiscated about 906 kilograms of suspected shabu and 64.15 liters of liquid methamphetamine, with a combined estimated street value of P6.6 billion.
Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian said the city will continue working closely with national and local law enforcement agencies to combat illegal drugs.
“Makakaasa po kayo na patuloy pa rin po at hindi po rito nagtatapos ang ating trabaho. Ang joint task force po ng national/local at barangay, ipagpapatuloy pa rin po namin ang imbestigasyon ukol sa kaso (You can be assured that our work does not end here. The joint task force composed of national, local, and barangay officials will continue the investigation into this case),” he
Police said the suspect remains in custody and will face charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Authorities are conducting further investigation to determine possible links to larger drug networks.
Gatchalian also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities, emphasizing that community cooperation is crucial in the fight against illegal drugs.