Abalos: War on illegal drugs nets P13.67B so far

INTERIOR Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. yesterday said the government’s continuing war against illegal drugs has netted P13.67 billion worth of shabu, marijuana, cocaine and ecstasy so far this year.

In a press briefing at Camp Crame, Abalos said the contraband was seized by policemen in 23,515 operations conducted throughout the country from January 1 to June 21.

These operations, Abalos said, also resulted in the arrest of 28,804 individuals.

Abalos said the seized illegal drugs included 1,779.73 kilos of shabu; 3,559.04 kilos of dried marijuana leaves; 4,951,655 marijuana plants; 26.62 kilos of cocaine, and 4.17 kilos of ecstasy.

From June 17 to 21 alone, Abalos said the PNP conducted 111 anti-drug operations, leading to the arrest of 123 individuals and the seizure of P52.34 million worth of shabu and marijuana.

He commended the Calabarzon regional police office, the Drug Enforcement Group and the Central Visayas regional police office for being the top three performing units in the campaign against illegal drugs.

“Congratulations to these units for their outstanding dedication and effectiveness in maintaining law and order, and for their significant contributions to our ongoing efforts against illegal drugs,” said Abalos.

Abalos also reported the other accomplishment of the PNP during the same period, including the arrest of 1,197 wanted persons, including former Negros governor Pryde Henry Teves.

Teves was arrested by police in Dumaguete City last Thursday for violation of the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012. He was released later that day after posting a bail of P600,000.

In the fight against loose firearms, Abalos said the PNP arrested 106 individuals and seized 183 firearms. He said 88 other firearms were turned in for safekeeping.

“These achievements demonstrate our unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, order, and safety across our nation,” said Abalos.

“We will continue to intensify our efforts and uphold the rule of law to protect our communities and bring justice to all,” added Abalos.