17 arrested in Dagupan drug raids

MANILA, Philippines - Combined elements of the police, military and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) swooped down on a drug den and three other houses in Dagupan City in Pangasinan last Friday, arresting 17 people and seizing 215 grams of shabu worth about P1.72 million.

PDEA director general Arturo Cacdac Jr. said the raids, covered by four search warrants, were part of “Operation Plan: Valentino.”

Among those collared were Saidame Macaisug and Iris Bernachea, alias Titeng Macaisug, the suspected operators of the drug den. 

The raiding teams also confiscated several firearms and live ammunition.

Fifteen of the 17 suspects are presently held at the Dagupan City police station for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The two others, both minors aged 16 and 17, were placed under the temporary custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.