By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A 17-year-old teenager was arrested by police after they seized P200,000 worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Taculing, Bacolod City, Tuesday.

Police refused to name the suspect, although they confirmed he is considered by the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) a “Level 2: High Value Target” and was at the top of the Police Station 6 (PS6) drugs watchlist.

BCPO acting city director, Police Senior Superintendent Jack Wanky, said the minor was arrested after he allegedly handed one elongated sachet of shabu to a police asset, in exchange for P500.

In total, Wanky said they seized 19 grams of shabu, worth P200,000, from the suspect.

Despite being a minor, the suspect still faces charges in violation of sections 5 and 12 of RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

However, under RA 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, Wanky explained the minor suspect could still be exempt from criminal liability, but will instead undergo an intervention program.

He added, the suspect is currently under the custody of the BCPO Women and Children’s Protection Desk (WCPD)./DGB, WDJ