PNP-PDEG monitors officials linked to drug trade, warns of new shipment methods

The Philippine National Police-Philippine Drug Enforcement Group (PNP-PDEG) is monitoring several local officials suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade to finance their campaigns for next year's midterm elections.

Director Eleazar Matta of PNP-PDEG warned that more shipments of shabu, or methamphetamine, are expected to arrive via innovative methods such as seaside and floating entry points.

Recently, authorities seized P75 million worth of shabu during a buy-bust operation in Ermita, Manila, arresting two suspects who are key members of a major drug syndicate.

Matta noted that the confiscated liquid shabu is easier to manufacture and can be sold online, posing new challenges for law enforcement due to its lower potency and ease of concealment through technology.

The PNP-PDEG highlighted the increasing use of social media and delivery apps by drug traffickers to facilitate transactions and evade detection.

Matta also revealed that they discovered a new type of 'cheaper' illegal drug being distributed and manufactured in the country, including ketamine, shabu, amphetamine, ecstasy, and assorted party drugs valued at P7.68 million seized during an operation in Pasay City.