P6M in drugs seized from woman in Talisay City

CEBU, Philippines — Over P6.1 million worth of shabu was seized from a 33-year-old woman in Sacred Heart Village, Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City, Friday night.

Ronalyn Berdin Baran aka “Nalyn,” a resident of Purok Masagana Barangay San Isidro Talisay City, was arrested, while her live-in partner, who she reportedly worked with in the illegal trade, evaded arrest.

Police Lt. Col. Epream Paguyod, Talisay City Police Chief said the suspect and her live-in partner Joe started engaging in the illegal drug activity early this year.

Baran reportedly managed the remittance and balances from the trade, while her live-partner arranged the distribution of the illegal drugs.

They were allegedly entrusted with one to two kilos of illegal drugs by a certain Jonas, who is currently incarcerated at the Abuyog Penal Farm Facility and a former townmate of Baran from Zamboanga Del Sur.

The subject was under surveillance for six days after authorities received a report from a confidential informant that she was involved in rapid distribution of illegal drugs.

Baran can reportedly dispose up to kilos of shabu per week covering Brgy. Isidro, Dumlog, Tabunok, and Tangke of Talisay City, and some areas of Cebu City.

During the anti-drug operation, authorities recovered nine large packs of suspected shabu weighing 900 grams worth P6.1 million.

Baran is currently held in the custodial facility of the Talisay City Police Station and is awaiting charges to be filed for violation of Sec. 5 Sec. 11 ART II RA 9165. — (FREEMAN)