P95M worth of shabu seized at Surigao port; suspect arrested
Authorities seized approximately P95.2 million worth of suspected shabu and arrested a man during a major anti-illegal drug operation at Lipata Port in Surigao City.
On March 14, 2026, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives from Regional Office 13 conducted a major anti-illegal drug operation at Lipata Port in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte. The operation occurred around 4:45 a.m. when the PDEA Seaport Interdiction UnitâSurigao intercepted approximately 14 kilograms of suspected crystal meth or 'shabu' with an estimated street value of P95.2 million. Authorities arrested a 23-year-old suspect during the interdiction operation.
During the operation, PDEA agents confiscated 14 packs of shabu, a metallic gray Toyota Hilux vehicle, an Android cellphone, and a tire suspected of being used to conceal the illegal drugs. Lipata Port serves as a crucial roll-on/roll-off ferry gateway in northeastern Mindanao, making it a strategic location for drug interdiction efforts. The suspect faces charges under Section 5 (transportation of dangerous drugs) of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
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PDEA Regional Office 13 Director Laurefel P. Gabales highlighted that the successful operation resulted from enhanced coordination among law enforcement and maritime security units. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to secure major Mindanao ports against drug trafficking activities. The seizure represents one of the largest drug hauls intercepted at the port facility in recent operations.
This operation demonstrates the government's intensified campaign against illegal drugs through strengthened port security measures. The interdiction at Lipata Port follows previous successful operations in the region, including a P13.6 million shabu seizure in Barangay Lipata in August 2023 and other significant drug busts throughout Surigao City and surrounding areas. The arrested suspect remains in custody pending formal charges for drug transportation violations.
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