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

The suspect, identified only by the alias “Gin,” was apprehended on Friday night in Barangay Magdalo-Potol, according to a statement from the Kawit Municipal Police Station.

Police said the operation resulted in the seizure of a small plastic sachet containing suspected methamphetamine, locally known as “shabu,” and gambling paraphernalia.

The arrest was part of an intensified campaign against crime in the area, conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the statement added.

The suspect faces charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act and illegal gambling laws.

Local police chief Richard D. Corpuz said the arrest “gives a stern warning to the public to refrain from engaging in illegal drugs.”

Authorities did not provide further details about the suspect or the quantity of drugs seized.

The Philippines continues to wage a controversial war on drugs, which has faced criticism from human rights groups over alleged extrajudicial killings.