SANTIAGO CITY, Isabela – A joint operation by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Region 2 and the police raided a suspected drug den, resulting in the arrest of a suspect and the rescue of three minors in Purok 6, Barangay Villasis, D Santiago City, Isabela, on August 22.
According to PDEA Regional Director Gil Cesario P. Castro, they arrested the suspect alias “Sandra,” 21, a resident of the area, while another suspect alias “Ace,” 38, escaped.
Confiscated inside the house were approximately 150 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) with an estimated market value of P18,000.
Also confiscated were two grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P13,600, three cellular phones, and various drug paraphernalia believed to be related to illegal drug activities.
Castro further said that three minors were found inside the alleged drug den and were immediately brought to the relevant authorities for assessment and proper disposition in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
The arrested suspect is set to be charged with alleged violations of Sections 5, 6, 7, 11, and 12, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or better known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Castro commended the operating teams for their successful operation and the rescue of the three minors. He stressed that dismantling drug dens is essential in preventing the spread of illegal drugs and protecting communities, especially children and other vulnerable individuals, from the dangers associated with the illegal drug trade.