In a determined effort to curb the influence of narcotics in politics, the Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) has ramped up its surveillance on drug lords who are reportedly backing candidates in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections. Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, the director of PRO-6, confirmed on November 8, 2024, that their monitoring efforts are relentless and ongoing.
Wanky, while not providing specifics, stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum in their fight against illegal drugs, pointing to recent successes as proof of their commitment. He expressed optimism about the future, stating that with continued operations, the presence of illegal drugs could be significantly reduced or even eradicated.
The police are also collaborating closely with their counterparts in Metro Manila, Mindanao, and Cebu, areas known for being sources of drug supply. This cooperative effort aims to disrupt the drug trade at its roots.
Last month alone, police operations in the region led to the seizure of approximately 12,066 grams of suspected shabu and 2,013 grams of marijuana, with a total street value estimated at PHP82 million. These operations resulted in the arrest of 317 drug suspects across 246 operations.
Those arrested are now facing charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as the police continue their vigilant watch over the drug trade and its political implications.