Massive Suspected Shabu Found Floating in West Philippine Sea
CAMP FLORENDO, San Fernando City, La Union – Police authorities estimate that the suspected shabu discovered floating in the West Philippine Sea off Pangasinan this week could be worth around P4.3 billion. So far, 28 sacks have been recovered as of 7 a.m. on Saturday, June 7.
Police Lt. Col. Benigno Sumawang, public information officer of Police Regional Office-1 (Ilocos), shared that Police Brig. Gen. Lou F. Evangelista, PRO-1 chief, is personally overseeing the surveillance and monitoring operations in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Region 1. Local fishermen and officials are also actively assisting in the efforts along the Pangasinan coast.
Community Efforts and Authorities’ Response
The suspected shabu found floating in the West Philippine Sea has been carefully examined by PDEA Region-1 and the Pangasinan Forensic Unit to verify and document the findings. The sacks were turned in by fishermen from the towns of Agno, Bani, and Bolinao, who discovered the illegal cargo while out at sea.
Brig. Gen. Evangelista urged all fishermen along the coastal areas of Region 1 to immediately report any suspicious floating objects they encounter in the West Philippine Sea. “Mahalagang makipag-ugnayan agad sa mga awtoridad upang maiwasan ang paglaganap ng ipinagbabawal na droga,” he said.
Ongoing Surveillance and Community Vigilance
Authorities continue to conduct rigorous surveillance and monitoring operations to prevent further incidents. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities plays a crucial role in curbing the illegal drug trade in the region.
The discovery highlights the persistent challenges faced by coastal communities and law enforcement in managing the illegal drug supply routes through maritime areas. Local leaders noted the importance of vigilance and cooperation to safeguard the community from the harmful effects of drugs.
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