The 26-year-old suspected shabu peddler arrested in an entrapment operation by agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 12 in Kidapawan City on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, is now detained. (Contributed photo)
Authorities in Central Mindanao recently carried out two successful anti-drug operations that led to the arrest of suspected shabu peddlers operating near school areas.
On Wednesday, March 11, agents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 12 (PDEA-12), working with local police units, arrested two men in separate entrapment operations in Kidapawan City and Koronadal City.
According to PDEA-12 Regional Director Charlene Magdurulang, both suspects are now in custody and will face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Kidapawan arrest
In Kidapawan City, a 26-year-old suspect was arrested during a buy-bust operation in Upper Mundog Subdivision, Barangay Poblacion. The operation was carried out with the support of local officials and police units under Police Regional Office 12.
Authorities recovered suspected shabu worth about โฑ192,100 during the operation. Reports from residents, including relatives and acquaintances of the suspect, had earlier alerted authorities about his alleged drug activities near school campuses and nearby neighborhoods.
Koronadal arrest
Later the same day, another 26-year-old suspect was arrested in Purok Mapayapa, Barangay General Paulino Santos in Koronadal City.
Investigators said the suspect was caught after selling a sachet of shabu to undercover agents. The operation was carried out following reports from barangay officials about the suspectโs alleged drug trade in the community.
Local officials also said the suspect had reportedly been selling shabu and marijuana near school premises and in public market areas.
Authorities continue to remind the public that community reporting plays a key role in keeping neighborhoods safe, especially around schools and other areas frequented by young people. Residents are encouraged to coordinate with local officials or law enforcement if they observe suspicious activities in their communities. (John Unson)
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