PDEA arrests W. Mindanao's most wanted drug dealer in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines – Anti-drug agents on Friday said they arrested in Metro Manila the most wanted drug dealer in Western Mindanao, who leads a drug syndicate reportedly linked to the bandit group Abu Sayyaf. A radio report said retired General Dionisio Santiago, chief of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), identified the arrested suspect as Sajari Amiril, who is being tagged as the leader of the Sakidal drug syndicate operating in Jolo, Sulu. The report added that Amiril leads the list of the PDEA's "target list" of drug dealers in Western Mindanao. Santiago said Amiril was arrested during a buy-bust operation in Brgy. Balong-Bato in San Juan City. PDEA agents reportedly seized from Amiril P21-million worth of high-grade methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu), allegedly imported from Malaysia. Investigators are still confirming information that the said syndicate is closely working with the Abu Sayyaf, which also reportedly engages in drug trade to fund their operations. - Mark Merueñas, GMANews.TV