Drug Den Dismantled in Calamba City Following Buy-Bust Operation, Target at-large 4 arrested

April 21, 2024

2–4 minutes

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In the early hours of April 21, 2024, a joint operation involving the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Laguna Provincial Office, PDEA Cavite Provincial Office, and Calamba City Police Station successfully dismantled a drug den in Purok 6, Parian Road, Barangay Parian, Calamba City, Laguna. The operation began with a buy-bust operation at 1:20 am, PDEA, targeting suspect Mark Jaycel Padilla, also known as Matong, who remains at large.

During the operation, law enforcement confiscated approximately seven grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of Php47,600. They also seized around one gram of suspected marijuana kush, valued at Php1,500, alongside buy-bust money and various drug paraphernalia.

Four suspects were arrested during the operation and identified by PDEA as alias Canicosa, 27 years old, male, alias Alipio, 23 years old, male, single, alias Jeramillos, 19 years old, male, single and alias Baltazar, 21 years old, male, single.

All arrested individuals are residents of Calamba City, Laguna but one of them is claiming to be from Bulacan. They will face charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, also known as The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Suspects Deny Drug Allegations, Claimed They Were Only Drinking and only attending a Birthday Party

The suspects apprehended during this drug bust operation have denied allegations of involvement in drug selling or usage. Instead, they claimed they were present at the location solely for drinking and socializing.

According to the arrested individuals, they were gathered at the location to engage in a birthday celebration’s drinking session and were not aware of any drug-related activities occurring in the vicinity, reiterated that they had no knowledge of any drug transactions taking place at the site.

Their statements contradict the findings of the joint operation conducted by PDEA Laguna Provincial Office, PDEA Cavite Provincial Office, and Calamba City Police Station, which resulted in the discovery of illegal drugs and paraphernalia at the scene. Authorities seized suspected shabu, marijuana kush, and various drug paraphernalia during the operation, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

Despite their denials, the suspects are set to face charges under Republic Act 9165, The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The charges stem from the evidence recovered during the operation and the testimonies of law enforcement officers involved.

The incident highlights the challenge faced by law enforcement in proving drug-related offenses and the importance of thorough investigation and evidence collection. While the suspects deny involvement in drug activities, authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring accountability for those involved in illegal drug trade.

As the legal process unfolds, the community is reminded of the significance of cooperation with law enforcement in combating drug-related crimes. By working together, residents and authorities can contribute to the creation of safer and drug-free communities.

The successful operation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in combatting illegal drug activities in the region. It highlights the commitment of authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of communities by targeting drug dens and apprehending individuals involved in the drug trade.

Calamba City, like many other urban areas, has been grappling with the proliferation of illegal drugs, which pose serious threats to public health and security. Operations such as this play a crucial role in disrupting the drug supply chain and dismantling the infrastructure that supports drug trafficking networks.

Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and cooperative in reporting any suspicious activities related to illegal drugs. Through collective action and continued enforcement efforts, communities can work together to create safer environments for everyone.

#Edjun Mariposque