Suspected shabu worth an estimated P13.6 million was seized in a buy-bust operation that killed a drug suspect and wounded a civilian in Barangay Tanduh Bato, Luuk, Sulu on April 27, 2024.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM) claimed that the suspect identified as “Pailan” resisted arrest and fought back during the operation.

Pailan allegedly ran to a crowded area at a public market upon sensing that he was dealing with authorities, prompting the PDEA-BARMM agents to chase after the suspect.

When the suspect was cornered, he allegedly grabbed the gun of one of the arresting officers.

Authorities shot the suspect before the latter could pull the trigger. A civilian was also hit.

The two were taken to the hospital where Pailan was declared dead upon arrival while the wounded civilian was discharged later after treatment.

Seized from the suspect were two big packs of suspected shabu weighing around two kilos, a cellphone, and identification cards.

"With great pride, let us take a moment to commend the unwavering dedication and hard work of the brave men and women in law enforcement who supported and participated in the successful operation. Their commitment, coupled with the exceptional leadership of Provincial Governor Abdusakur M. Tan, is truly inspiring in the fight against illegal drugs in the area," PDEA-BARMM Director, Gil Cesario Castro, said.