A barangay official in Mabini, Davao de Oro, was arrested in a buy-bust operation that led to the confiscation of what authorities say was a significant amount of suspected shabu, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 11.
The suspect, identified only as “Chardix,” a 42-year-old barangay official, was taken into custody during the late-night operation at Purok 4, Barangay Pangibiran. The arrest took place past 10 p.m. on November 27.
PDEA Region 11 operatives said they caught the suspect in the act of selling illegal drugs during the buy-bust. Agents recovered an estimated five grams of suspected shabu valued at P47,000 from the initial transaction.
Following the arrest, authorities seized four more sachets believed to contain shabu. The additional packets were estimated to be worth P265,000, bringing the total value of confiscated drugs to P312,000.
The barangay official was immediately detained and is now held at the authorities’ custody as charges are being prepared. PDEA said the suspect will face complaints for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Authorities said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal drug activity across the province. No additional suspects were reported in connection with the case.
PDEA Region 11 said the suspect will remain detained while the investigation continues.
