P30 million drugs seized from delivery rider

CEBU, Philippines —  More than P30 million worth of drugs was seized from a delivery rider during a joint anti-drug operation in M. Logarta St., Brgy. Subangdaku, Mandaue City, on Friday night.

The suspect, identified as Kent Kirk Calonge Ponsica, a.k.a. Kirk, 29, a resident of Figueroa St., Brgy. Sawang Calero, Cebu City, was arrested with 4.5 kilos of suspected shabu worth P30.6 million.

The City Intelligence Unit/City Drug Enforcement Unit of the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO), in partnership with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), conducted the operation at 7:33 p.m. on December 20, 2024.

Additional evidence recovered from the suspect included P1,000 in cash–indicative of proceeds from illegal drug transactions, a mobile phone, buy-bust money, and a backpack concealing the illegal drugs.

Further, Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 officer-in-command Police Brigadier General Roy Parena commended the successful collaboration of law enforcement agencies and the active support of the community, which has led to the arrest of high-value drug personalities and a significant drug seizure in Central Visayas.

“As we approach the final days of 2024, what we witness is the direct outcome of the Central Visayas police’s unwavering commitment to eliminating the threat of illegal drugs and building a strong, and resilient community,” said Parena.

The arrested suspect will face charges for violating Sections 5 and 11 of R.A. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.—Mitchelle L.Palaubsanon/ATO