Police in Negros Oriental have confiscated over P40 million worth of suspected shabu during intensified anti-drug operations, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday.

Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, said yesterday that 183 anti-illegal drug operations were conducted across the province from January 1 to April 30, leading to the confiscation of 5,892 grams of suspected shabu and the arrest of 191 drug personalities.

Sixteen of those arrested were classified as high-value targets.

In addition, 181.2 grams of marijuana valued at P34,500 were also seized.

The police also stepped up efforts against loose firearms, conducting 356 operations, serving 10 search warrants, arresting 17 individuals and recovering 374 firearms.

Oplan Katok, a campaign encouraging firearm owners to surrender unlicensed guns voluntarily, resulted in 72 firearms being turned over.

Polinar said 84 Most Wanted Persons and 587 Other Wanted Persons were also arrested during the same period.

These intensified operations come as authorities aim to bolster security ahead of the May 12 elections and the peak of the summer tourist season. (PNA)