By Mary Judaline Partlow

DRUG HAUL.The Philippine National Police in Negros Oriental has confiscated some PHP40 million worth of suspected shabu from January to April this year. Arrested in the same period were 191 drug suspects, 16 of whom were tagged as “high-value targets”. (PNA file photo courtesy of NOPPO)

DUMAGUETE CITY – Police in Negros Oriental has confiscated over PHP40 million worth of suspected shabu during intensified anti-drug operations, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Wednesday.

Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO), said on Wednesday that 183 anti-illegal drug operations were conducted across the province from Jan. 1 to April 30, leading to the confiscation of 5,892 grams of suspected shabu and the arrest of 191 drug personalities.

Sixteen of those arrested were classified as high-value targets.

In addition, 181.2 grams of marijuana valued at PHP34,500 were also seized.

The police also stepped up efforts against loose firearms, conducting 356 operations, serving 10 search warrants, arresting 17 individuals, and recovering 374 firearms.

Oplan Katok, a campaign encouraging firearm owners to surrender unlicensed guns voluntarily, resulted in 72 firearms being turned over.

Polinar said 84 Most Wanted Persons and 587 Other Wanted Persons were also arrested during the same period.

These intensified operations come as authorities aim to bolster security ahead of the May 12 elections and the peak of the summer tourist season. (PNA)