Major Drug Bust in Negros Oriental Nets P414,800 Worth of Shabu
In a significant operation aimed at curbing the illegal drug trade, the Police Regional Office in Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) successfully seized an estimated P414,800 worth of shabu during a drug bust in Sibulan, Negros Oriental. The operation, which took place on February 22, 2026, targeted Purok 5A, Sitio Campaclan, Barangay Poblacion, and resulted in the arrest of a high-value suspect known as alias "Shakira."
Arrest and Seizure Details
The 38-year-old resident of Sitio Campaclan was apprehended by operatives from the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo) Drug Enforcement Unit, with crucial support from the Sibulan Municipal Police Station. During the arrest, authorities recovered several plastic sachets containing approximately 61 grams of shabu, along with marked money and a cellular phone, which are believed to be linked to the illegal activities.
Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, emphasized the importance of this seizure, stating that it effectively prevented the further distribution of dangerous drugs within the community. She highlighted that the operation was initiated based on a tip from a confidential informant, who reported that the suspect was allegedly engaged in the illegal drug trade in the area.
Background and Charges
Following the tip, casing and surveillance operations were conducted to validate the report. It was revealed that the suspect had a prior arrest for violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This history underscores the suspect's status as a high-value drug personality in Negros Oriental.
Currently, the suspect is detained at the custodial facility of the Sibulan Municipal Police Station and is facing formal charges for violation of RA 9165. The legal proceedings are expected to move forward as part of the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes.
PRO-NIR's Commitment to Public Safety
Malong reiterated PRO-NIR's unwavering commitment to the fight against illegal drugs, noting that the agency remains relentless and unyielding in its operations. She explained that by executing precise and resolved actions, PRO-NIR aims to dismantle criminal networks at every level, ensuring that no individual or group can operate with impunity in the Negros Island Region.
"This demonstrates that PRO-NIR will act firmly and without compromise to safeguard public safety and maintain a drug-free environment," Malong added. The swift and decisive action taken in this case reflects the agency's broader strategy to protect communities and uphold the rule of law, contributing to a safer and more secure region for all residents.
