67kg of Shabu Worth P455.6 Million Seized in Zamboanga City — 4 Arrested

67kg of Shabu Worth P455.6 Million Seized in Zamboanga City — 4 Arrested

📌 On Wednesday, November 11, in a joint sting operation by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and police at a house on Arcillas Road in Barangay Mercedes, Zamboanga City, Mindanao, about 67kg of suspected shabu (methamphetamine) worth P455.6 million was seized, and three men and one woman were arrested.

■ Details of the Incident
· The initial transaction turned up 2kg (worth P13.6 million), and a follow-up search uncovered another 65kg (worth P442 million) (Manila Bulletin).
· GMA reported that the first sting took place at 4:52 p.m.
· According to the Daily Tribune, the drugs came in from abroad; PDEA's National Capital Region office had been tracking them and carried out the operation after waiting for them to arrive in Zamboanga.
· Mobile phones, IDs, electronic weighing scales, a vehicle, and other items were also seized.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· The suspects are being held in PDEA custody and are to be charged with violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165) after the seized items undergo laboratory examination. The charges are the claims of the investigating authorities.
· Philippine National Police Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered investigators not to stop at the four arrested but to identify the suppliers, financiers, and distribution network (GMA).

■ Notice for Residents and Travelers
· Do not carry luggage or parcels for strangers at airports or ports.

■ Sources
Daily Tribune (11/12), GMA (11/12), Manila Bulletin (11/12)

■ Photos
· 1. Operatives sorting the seized items — Daily Tribune
· 2. Packages of seized suspected shabu — Manila Bulletin
· 3. Seized suspected drugs on a table — GMA News