Suspected HVI Arrested in Catbalogan Buy-Bust, Shabu Recovered

• A 51-year-old motor cab driver and street-level drug suspect, alias “Tako,” was arrested in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Minda, Gandara, on April 17.

Let Teña 3 hours ago 4 K

Posted on June 25, 2026 at 11:11 am

CATBALOGAN CITY — A suspected High-Value Individual (HVI) in the illegal drug trade was arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted by police in Barangay Mercedes, Catbalogan City, on the morning of June 23, 2026.

The suspect, known only by the alias “Erwin,” 30, is originally from Barangay Acidelio in Calbayog City and is currently living in Barangay Mercedes. Police said he is unemployed and living with his partner.

Authorities seized one sachet of suspected shabu that was allegedly sold to an undercover operative, along with eight more sachets believed to contain the same illegal substance. The confiscated drugs weighed about 2.3 grams and were valued at approximately ₱15,640. A cellphone was also recovered during the operation.

The buy-bust was carried out by members of the Catbalogan City Police Station (CPS) under the direction of Chief of Police PLTCOL Norman D. Ala, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

The suspect is now in police custody and is expected to face charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Photos by: Let Teña