Highway patrol personnel in Zamboanga del Sur discovered approximately P68 million worth of shabu hidden in a vehicle they impounded following a checkpoint operation on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The operation took place along the national highway in Buenavista village, Pagadian City.
Discovery During Inspection
Police Major Jason Ray Gomera, chief of the Zamboanga del Sur Highway Patrol Team, reported that the discovery was made around 6:20 p.m. during a Technical Inspection and Inventory Report (TIIR). The team found 10 packs of illegal drugs concealed under the driver's seat of a three-wheeled vehicle locally known as a "bao-bao."
Coordination with Drug Enforcement Agencies
Gomera stated that they immediately coordinated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) after uncovering the plastic packs containing a white crystalline substance. An inventory conducted by PDEG personnel confirmed the presence of 10 packs of shabu valued at P68 million. Village officials and members of the media witnessed the inventory.
Driver's Violation and Escape
The vehicle was impounded after its driver, identified only as alias Abdullah, failed to present the necessary documents when flagged down during a checkpoint. Abdullah was initially cited for unauthorized modification of the vehicle while traveling from Malangas, Zamboanga del Sur, to Cotabato City. After receiving the citation ticket, he hurriedly left and did not return to claim the vehicle.
Investigation Ongoing
The 10 packs of shabu have been turned over to the PDEG for proper disposition. Authorities are now investigating the source of the confiscated illegal drugs. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the illegal drug trade in the region.
