Successful Buy-Bust Operation Nabs High-Value Target in Oroquieta City

Successful Buy-Bust Operation Nabs High-Value Target in Oroquieta City

In a significant operation against illegal drugs, law enforcement agencies in Oroquieta City achieved a milestone with the arrest of RICKLEY LASALA RODA, a 32-year-old male identified as a high-value target and a resident of P-6, Brgy Mobod, Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental.

The joint Drug buy-bust operation, conducted under PDEA Pre-ops no. 30002-032024-0115 @ 1820H on March 6, 2024, saw the collaboration of the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), MOCPPO, PIU MOCPPO, ORCPS CDEU, and 1st PMFC. Led by PCAPT JUNRIE A CABASAN, the operation resulted in the successful apprehension of the suspect at 4:25 PM on March 7, 2024, in P-6, Brgy Mobod, Oroquieta City.

The suspect, identified as an online English teacher, was found in possession of a medium-sized heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet believed to contain shabu. Subsequent searches revealed twelve more sachets of the crystalline substance, indicating involvement in the illegal drug trade.

Various items connected to the drug trade were confiscated from the suspect, including drug paraphernalia, a genuine one-thousand-peso bill used as buy-bust money, an iPhone 8, a driver's license, and an empty cellophane pack used to conceal the shabu. The total estimated weight of the confiscated shabu amounted to 1.5 grams with a street value of P13,000.00.

The operation adhered to strict protocols, with documentation carried out in the presence of DOJ Representative Patrick B Echalico, Media Representative Clifton T Quidet, and elected barangay officials Arnold Rejoy and Eliza Pacarro of Brgy Mobod. The arrested person was duly informed of his Constitutional Rights under the Miranda Doctrine.

The utilization of the PNP-issued Body Worn Camera (BWC) ensured transparency and compliance with OCA Circular No. 110-2021, titled "Rules on the Use of Body Worn Cameras." The successful operation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the law enforcement agencies in combating the proliferation of illegal drugs in the region.