In a sweeping month-long offensive against illegal drugs, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has delivered a crushing blow to narcotics operations throughout Western Visayas, apprehending 161 suspects and confiscating an estimated P3.96 million worth of prohibited substances.
Massive Drug Haul Across Western Visayas
The intensive anti-drug campaign, spanning from June 10 to July 10, resulted in the seizure of approximately 583 grams of shabu with a staggering street value of P3.96 million. Police Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Benitez Jr., PRO-6 information officer, revealed that the operations covered all six provinces under their jurisdiction.
The breakdown of arrests shows:
- Iloilo Province: 35 suspects apprehended
- Negros Occidental: 32 individuals in custody
- Capiz: 22 arrests made
- Aklan: 19 suspects captured
- Antique: 18 individuals arrested
- Guimaras: 5 suspects apprehended
- Bacolod City: 15 arrests
- Iloilo City: 15 suspects in custody
Iloilo City Operations Yield Significant Results
Iloilo City emerged as a major battleground in the anti-drug campaign, with police conducting 15 separate buy-bust operations that led to substantial drug seizures. The most significant operation occurred in Barangay San Juan, Molo, where authorities confiscated approximately 50 grams of shabu valued at P340,000 from a 28-year-old construction worker.
"Our relentless operations demonstrate our commitment to eradicating the drug menace in Western Visayas," stated Police Lieutenant Colonel Benitez. "We will continue to intensify our campaigns to maintain peace and order in the region."
Notable Seizures and Arrests
Among the significant accomplishments was the arrest of a 25-year-old construction worker in Barangay Tanza Esperanza, Iloilo City, yielding 30 grams of shabu worth P204,000. Another major operation in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala II resulted in the capture of a 42-year-old jobless individual with 20 grams of shabu valued at P136,000.
The PRO-6 has reaffirmed its dedication to continuing aggressive anti-drug operations, working closely with local communities and implementing strategic approaches to dismantle drug networks throughout Western Visayas.
