LUCENA CITY, Philippines — Anti-narcotics operatives successfully dismantled a local drug distribution operation on Monday, April 27, 2026, seizing over P2.1 million worth of suspected shabu (crystal meth). The operation, carried out in Barangay Barra, led to the arrest of a 32-year-old woman identified by the police as a “high-value individual” (HVI).
The buy-bust operation was executed at approximately 7:55 p.m. by undercover officers of the Lucena City police.
- The Sting: The suspect, identified only as “Collen,” was apprehended after selling P500 worth of shabu to an undercover operative.
- The Front: Investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly used an online selling business as a cover for her illegal activities within the community.
- Seized Evidence: Authorities recovered six sealed plastic sachets and one large knot-tied plastic bag. The total weight of the confiscated substance was 120.3 grams.
The Lucena City police highlighted a significant gap between official valuation and actual street prices:
- DDB Valuation: According to standard Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) rates (P6,800/gram), the haul is valued at P818,040.
- Street Value: However, police officials estimated the current street value at P2,154,120 based on prevailing local market prices.
The suspect is currently in police custody and is facing formal charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165).
Lt. Col. Ryan Hernandez, chief of the Lucena City police, stated on Tuesday that the arrest is part of a broader, intensified campaign against HVIs in the Quezon province.
- Supply Chain Investigation: Police are now conducting follow-up operations to identify the primary source of the narcotics distributed by the suspect.
- Community Vigilance: The operation was supported by local intelligence, underscoring the role of community monitoring in identifying “front” businesses used for illicit trades.
The successful sting in Lucena City follows a series of regional operations aimed at curbing the flow of illegal drugs into the Calabarzon region, as law enforcement adapts to new distribution methods involving e-commerce and social media platforms.