By Nelson S. Badilla

Operatives of the Southern Police District (SPD) arrested 36 drug personalities in separate operations conducted within 24 hours.

SPD director Chief Supt. Tomas Apolinario Jr. said the Pasay City police reported 11 arrested suspects, the highest number of arrest among the cities within his jurisdiction.

Pasay City is notorious for drug trafficking and abuse, particularly in Barangays Maricaban, Malibay and the Libertad area.

Next is Taguig City with nine arrested drug personalities, Apolinario said.

Barangays Bagumbayan, New Lower Bicutan, Maharlika and Ususan in Taguig are among the known “hot” areas of drug activities.

The Paranaque City police reported the arrest of seven drug suspects.

Makati, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa City reported three drug arrests each for a total of nine drug personalities nabbed within the period, according to Apolinario.

It was only in Pateros City where there is no reported arrest of drug personality within the period.

The 24-hour operation of the SPD resulted in the seizure of 55 sachets of shabu and one cigarette foil containing ashes of marijuana.

The arrested suspects are in detention pending the filing of appropriate criminal charges against them, according to Apolinario.