KAWIT, Cavite – Philippine police arrested a suspected drug dealer in a buy-bust operation on Sunday evening in Kawit, Cavite province, authorities said.

The suspect, identified only as “Bert,” was apprehended around 7 p.m. local time in Barangay Balsahan-Bisita after allegedly selling a small sachet of suspected methamphetamine, locally known as “shabu,” to an undercover officer.

The operation was conducted by the Drugs Enforcement Unit and Intelligence Operatives of the Kawit Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 4A.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Richard D. Corpuz, Chief of Kawit Municipal Police, said the arrest was part of an intensified campaign against criminality in the area.

The suspect faces charges for violation of Sections 5 and 11 of Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Authorities said the suspect was informed of his rights and taken to the Kawit Municipal Police Station for processing.

The Kawit police pledged to continue their efforts against illegal drugs and other forms of criminality in the municipality.