Authorities seized suspected shabu worth more than P605 million and arrested three people during an operation in Barangay Rio Hondo, Zamboanga City on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

Personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Group, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine Marines, Philippine Navy, and local government unit confiscated around 89 kilos of suspected shabu placed in several styro boxes from a boat along the shore.

Three people on board the boat were arrested – a 53-year-old resident of Isabela City, Basilan and 27-year-old and 41-year-old residents of Zamboanga City.

According to the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9), the suspects are possible companions of two other individuals arrested on August 19 for allegedly attempting to smuggle more than P455 million worth of alleged illegal drugs concealed in two suitcases.

“Kung matatandaan niyo, meron tayong 67 kilos, three weeks ago, na nasabat dito sa Bunguiao naman, so tinitingnan natin na sila ay magkasama. Matagal na ring minamanmanan itong grupo na ito,” PRO-9 Spokesperson, Major Shellamie Chang, said.

The three suspects arrested are now detained and will face charges for alleged violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165).

Police said Zamboanga City has reportedly become the transshipment point for illegal drugs from other places intended for distribution to nearby areas in Region 9.

“Gusto natin, dito pa lang sa atin, makuha na natin at hindi na nila ma-distribute,” Chang added.