Quezon city: A buy-bust operation in Quezon City early Wednesday morning resulted in the confiscation of PHP142.2 million worth of shabu and the arrest of two suspects. The suspects, identified only as "Eli" and "Rolando," both motorcycle taxi drivers, were caught selling 500 grams of shabu to an undercover agent posing as a buyer.
According to Philippines News Agency, an estimated 21 kilograms of shabu packed in plastic containers were seized from the suspects. A subsequent search of the suspects' vehicle and belongings led to the discovery of an additional 20.5 kilograms of the illegal substance. The drug haul indicates a large-scale trafficking operation that could have supplied substantial quantities of illegal drugs in communities in Metro Manila and nearby regions.
PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez stated that by removing these drugs from circulation, countless Filipino lives have been saved. The suspects will be charged with violation of Section 5 (Sale of Dangerous Drugs) and Section 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) in relation to Section 26 (Conspiracy to Sell), Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, in Pasay City, police arrested a businessman included in the Department of the Interior and Local Government's list of national-level most wanted persons. Mark Steven Freeman, 37, who had a PHP400,000 reward for his arrest, was apprehended by virtue of 19 warrants of arrest issued by several regional trial courts in Cagayan de Oro City and Zamboanga City. Police stated that most of Freeman's cases involve syndicated estafa and violations of Republic Act 8799, or the Securities Regulation Code, while one case involves large-scale swindling.
In a related development, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group announced the arrest of four Korean nationals involved in illegal online gambling activities in Cebu City. PNP-ACG chief Brig. Gen. Wilson Asueta said the four were arrested on March 2 during an operation launched after receiving a tip regarding alleged illegal online gambling activities conducted by foreign nationals at a condominium unit in Cebu City. The government's directive is that online gambling activities are prohibited if they are not registered or authorized by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.