PDEA Busts High-Value Drug Personalities in Benguet, Seize 31 Kilograms of Marijuana

by: Edjun Mariposque ****

May 2, 2024

3 minutes

****

In a pre-dawn operation on May 2, 2024, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) made a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal drugs in Benguet. Joint operatives from PDEA Regional Office IV-A Special Enforcement Team 2, PDEA CAR-Baguio-Benguet Provincial Office, and PDEA CAR LTIU conducted a meticulously planned buy-bust operation in an open parking lot located in Barangay Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet.

The operation, which began at 5:30 in the morning, targeted two high-value drug personalities believed to be major players in the local drug trade. The suspects were identified as Levis Panangen, also known as Vis Lee, aged 26, and Alvin Lid-ayan, aged 21. Both individuals are single and residents of Barangay Bakbakan, Kibungan, Benguet.

PDEA operatives, acting on verified intelligence information, closed in on the suspects as they conducted their illicit transaction. With precise coordination and strategic planning, law enforcement successfully apprehended Panangen and Lid-ayan without incident. The duo was immediately taken into custody, and a thorough search of their persons and surroundings ensued.

During the search, PDEA operatives made a staggering discovery: more or less 31 kilograms of elongated dried marijuana leaves with stalks and fruiting tops. The illegal substances were meticulously wrapped in brown packaging tape, indicating an organized operation. The estimated street value of the seized drugs amounts to a whopping Php3,720,000.00, making this one of the most significant drug busts in the region in recent memory.

In addition to the substantial haul of illegal drugs, law enforcement also seized buy-bust money, further evidence of the suspects’ involvement in drug trafficking. The swift and decisive action of PDEA operatives prevented the distribution of these narcotics, potentially saving countless lives from the devastating effects of drug addiction.

Following their arrest, Panangen and Lid-ayan were brought to the appropriate authorities for processing and further investigation. Charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, will be filed against them. The arrest of these high-value drug personalities sends a clear message that law enforcement agencies are committed to eradicating illegal drug activities and holding accountable those who seek to profit from the misery of others.

PDEA, together with other law enforcement agencies, remains vigilant in its efforts to combat the drug menace and safeguard communities across the country.

The successful buy-bust operation in Benguet serves as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of PDEA operatives and their partners in law enforcement. As the battle against illegal drugs wages on, PDEA remains at the forefront, ensuring that justice is served and communities are kept safe from the devastating effects of narcotics.

#Edjun Mariposque

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