Lanao Del Sur - Drug dens and drug rings in Picong, Lanao Del Sur were successfully eliminated by combined elements of PNP PRO BAR, NBI, PDEA, and Philippine Marines during law enforcement operation on May 14, 2021.

            The Law Enforcement Operation resulted in the neutralization of the notorious drug den operator identified as Kumander Karem Abedin who together with his cohorts fired upon the operating units who were implementing the search warrants. Also, three personnel were wounded in action on the side of the government forces.

            Likewise, fifteen (15) drug personalities were arrested during the operation and seizure of one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M16 Baby Armalite, one (1) Barret Sniper rifle, one (1) fragmentation granade, suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia, and three (3) motorcycles.

            All arrested drug suspects and seized illegal drugs are in the custody of PDEA BARMM. Cases for violation of Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, RA 10591, and RA 9516 were filed against all drug suspects both arrested and at-large.

            The illegal drug group of Kumander Karem was also a potential Private Armed Group. The community of Picong was relieved and thankful for the operation conducted by PRO BAR. PBGEN Eden T Ugale, Regional Director, PRO BAR, lauded the operating units and reiterates that PRO BAR is determined in eradicating illegal drugs in the Bangsamoro region. The relentless fight against illegal drugs of PRO BAR remains firm.