Anti-illegal drug operatives arrested a 25-year-old man with suspected shabu worth around P9 million in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Matina Pangi, Davao City on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.

The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) identified the suspect as alias “Janjan,” number one priority target in the illegal drug trade in the city.

“Nakapag deal ang poseur buyer dito with the help of our confidential informant at sa help ng community natin pinalakas natin ang kampanya kontra druga dito sa city,” DCPO Director, Col. Mannan Muarip, said.

Seized from his possession were sachets of suspected shabu weighing more than one kilo.

Police are investigating the suspect’s possible customers and where the illegal drugs came from, but they clarified that the source is not within the city and that the illegal substance were merely passed through the area.

“Ito naman ay hindi naman yung source niya di galing dito kundi outside of davao city di muna natin idivulge para makita natin kung pwede pa natin siyang sundan later on,” Muarip said.

“When it comes to entry points isa yan sa pag mi-meetingan namin meron akong pina schedule na meeting with… kasama ang task force davao, mga commander ng border control point ng bawat border oints at station commander na lalo pa natin paigtingin with the advent na meron tayong nakuha na ganito kalaki,” he added.

The suspect is now detained and will face charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165). He refused to comment.

Muarip said in the four months since he assumed his post, more than 600 operations have been carried out, which resulted in the arrest of over 800 drug suspects.

“This operation is a clear demonstration of DCPO’s unwavering commitment to dismantle illegal drug networks and protect our communities. Guided by the D.A.V.A.O. Framework, we will continue to pursue high-value drug personalities and ensure that Davaoeños live in a safe and drug-free environment. Our fight against illegal drugs is a shared responsibility, and we call on the community to remain vigilant and supportive of our campaign,” Muarip said.