Two alleged drug dealers who worked directly under a big-time drug personality were arrested by law enforcers in Tagbilaran City during the city’s fiesta celebration on Wednesday.
The suspected drug pushers were allegedly caught in possession of shabu worth P142, 800 during a drug sting led by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Joint operatives of the NBI and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) apprehended the operation’s target Jose Balida, 30, and his alleged cohort in the drug trade Henry Bantugan, 29, after they sold shabu worth 20,000 to an undercover agent, authorities said.
The poseur-buyer transacted with Balida but it was Bantugan who handed over the illegal drugs during the operation in Barangay Taloto.
Operatives then allegedly found 21 grams of shabu from the possession of both men.
The PDEA estimated the seized contraband to be worth P142,800.
Both men are set to be charged with possession and sale of illegal drugs. (wm)