TALAVERA, NUEVA ECIJA — A 22-year-old Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) councilor was arrested in Talavera, Nueva Ecija during a police buy-bust operation, with authorities seizing suspected shabu valued at nearly P7,000. The youth official was identified as a high-value target by the Philippine National Police.

Police operatives apprehended the SK councilor in Barangay Calipahan after a surveillance operation conducted by the drug enforcement unit of the Talavera Police Station. Authorities confirmed that the suspect, a resident of Barangay Dinarayat, had been under close monitoring prior to the sting.

Investigators reported that the suspect was caught in possession of four plastic sachets containing suspected shabu weighing about one gram. The seized drugs were estimated to have a street value of P6,800. Law enforcers also recovered P500 in marked money used during the buy-bust operation.

Police described the suspect as a “high-value individual” in the local drug watchlist, underscoring the seriousness of the case despite his young age and position as a youth leader. The arrest highlights the continuing crackdown on illegal drugs in Nueva Ecija, where multiple suspects have been apprehended in recent days.

Authorities emphasized that the operation was part of a broader campaign against illegal drugs in the province. “We will not tolerate involvement of public officials, regardless of age or position, in illegal drug activities,” a police spokesperson said.

The suspect is currently detained at the Talavera Police Station and faces charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Police officials noted that the arrest serves as a warning to other youth leaders and public servants who may be tempted to engage in illicit activities.

The incident has sparked concern among residents, as SK officials are expected to serve as role models for the youth. Community members expressed disappointment, saying that the arrest undermines the trust placed in local youth leaders.

Meanwhile, the Nueva Ecija Provincial Police Office confirmed that at least 14 individuals were arrested in separate anti-drug and law enforcement operations across the province on March 23, including other high-value suspects.

The arrest of the SK councilor in Talavera adds to the growing list of cases involving public officials linked to illegal drugs, reinforcing the government’s message that accountability applies to all sectors of society.