₱1.8 Million Worth of Shabu Seized in High-Stakes Buy-Bust in Camarines Norte

MERCEDEZ, CAMARINES NORTE — Two men were arrested in a dramatic buy-bust operation early Thursday morning, July 10, after authorities seized an estimated ₱1.8 million worth of shabu in Barangay 5, Pandawan.

The suspects, identified as alias “Gio,” 46, a resident of Tumana, Marikina City but currently living in Barangay IV Mantagbac, Daet, Camarines Norte; and alias “Son,” 29, a tricycle driver from Cubao, Quezon City, were caught red-handed.

Authorities recovered a total of 275 grams of suspected shabu — including a 10-gram sachet used as buy-bust bait with a street value of ₱68,000 and 53 additional sachets weighing 265 grams valued at around ₱1.8 million. A ₱500 bill used in the buy-bust was also confiscated.

The seized drugs were immediately destroyed in the presence of barangay officials and media representatives to ensure transparency.

Charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165) are being prepared against the suspects.

The joint operation was conducted by the Camarines Norte Police Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (CNPPDEU), together with the Mercedes Municipal Police Station (MPS) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

This successful operation highlights the ongoing crackdown against illegal drugs in Camarines Norte, sending a strong message to drug syndicates operating in the region.