Ronnie Yanuario PALO, Leyte – A joint effort between the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) and the Palo Municipal Police Station led to the apprehension of a tricycle driver suspected of involvement in illegal drugs on the night of December 22, 2025.
The suspect, identified as Darie Giada y Repolda, a 40-year-old resident of Barangay San Fernando, was taken into custody around 11:00 p.m. during a Buy-Bust operation in Barangay Gindapunan.
Law enforcement officials seized two heat-sealed transparent plastic bags containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, weighing approximately 5.18 grams with a street value of P35,224.
In addition, authorities recovered a P500 bill with serial number CF 4982105 used as marked money, a disposable lighter, and the tricycle believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.
Giada is currently detained at the lock-up cell of the Palo Municipal Police Station and will face charges for violations of Section 5 and Section 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act 2002.
The police emphasized that their actions are part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug activities and maintain peace within the community, especially during the holiday season.
(Photos by Tita Char, The Vanguard)
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