By CESAR JOLITO III

More than P2 million worth of suspected shabu was seized in a buy-bust operation in Bacolod City’s Barangay Cabug on Monday, December 1 — following a direct citizen complaint lodged through the government’s 8888 hotline.

The two alleged drug personalities arrested were identified only by their aliases “Niño,” 23 years old, and “Steph,” 21 years old.

Both suspects are residents of Purok Saturn, Barangay Handumanan.

The operation, staged by the City Drug Enforcement Unit, took place at Block 18, Lot 49, Deca Homes.

Authorities reported confiscating approximately 300 grams of suspected shabu, valued at P2,040,000 based on standard drug pricing.

The haul included one sachet used as the buy-bust item, five sachets recovered from the suspects, and five knot-tied plastic bags believed to contain additional suspected shabu.

Police also seized P1,000 in marked money and various non-drug items.

Citizen’s tip sparked surveillance

Police said the operation was launched after residents reported nightly disturbances and suspicious motorcycle-riding individuals allegedly frequenting their area for drug transactions.

Additional intelligence from a confidential informant alleged that “Niño” had been distributing illegal drugs across several Bacolod barangays, including Mansilingan and Handumanan.

Following days of surveillance, authorities staged the buy-bust, with the transaction consummated through assistance from the informant.

Both suspects are detained at Police Station 9 and will face charges for violating Articles 5, 11 and 26 of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act./CJ, WDJ