7 killed, 263 arrested, including alleged BIAF commander, in drug operation in Quiapo

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 7): 7 killed, 263 arrested, including alleged BIAF commander, in drug operation in Quiapo

An anti-drug operation at the Islamic Center in Quiapo Friday led to the death of seven suspected drug pushers and the arrest of 263 suspected drug users, including an alleged commander of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada oversaw the early morning operation conducted by members of Stations 3 and 8 of the Manila Police District (MPD), Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), and National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).

“This shows that we are serious in our fight against illegal drugs,” Estrada said as he called on Muslim leaders at the Islamic Center to support the government’s war on drugs.

“This is just the second time that the Islamic Center has been raided. The first was during Marcos’ administration. Let's cooperate in making your community clean, peaceful and drug-free," he said.

One of the seven fatalities in the operation was a high-value target, a certain Faiz Macabato, reportedly the chairman of Barangay 648, who has a PHP1 million bounty on his head.

According to the MPD, he fought back when policemen stormed the barangay hall.

“Walang sini-sino ang kampanya natin na ‘to. Basta may atraso ka sa batas, kailangan mong pagbayaran but unfortunately, nanlaban siya kaya napilitan na rin ang MPD (This anti-illegal drug campaign does not recognize anyone. If you broke the law, you have to be held accountable.

Unfortunately, he resisted arrest so the MPD was forced to fight back),” Estrada said.

Dozens of high-powered firearms and grenades and at least 60 sachets of suspected shabu were confiscated during the operation, MPD director, Sr. Supt. Joel Coronel said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=929481