3 nabbed in Basak San Nicolas drug den

THREE individuals were arrested during an anti-illegal drug operation launched by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)–Cebu Provincial Office at a drug den in Sitio Ipil, Barangay Basak San Nicolas in Cebu City.

The area had only recently been declared drug-cleared. The operation took place at 7:50 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025.

PDEA Central Visayas Acting Director Alex Tablate identified the primary suspect as alias Jonathan, 60, a resident of Basak San Nicolas, who was the target of the operation and reportedly managed the drug den.

Jonathan had previously completed the barangay’s Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program but returned to his former trade and vices.

Also arrested were two men caught inside the drug den — alias Jino, 39, an e-bike driver, and alias Vincent, 31, a welder. Both are residents of the area.

Authorities seized seven sachets of shabu weighing a total of 15.08 grams, with an estimated market value of P102,408, along with various drug paraphernalia.

According to Leia Alcantara, information officer of PDEA Central Visayas, the drug den was subjected to a week-long case buildup after reports surfaced that the suspect had resumed his illegal activities, which then led to the operation.

Jonathan was allegedly capable of selling 10 to 20 grams of shabu per week.

The suspects will face charges for violating Sections 5, 6, 7, 11, and 12 of Article II of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002). (AYB)