Citizen’s arrest in action: BPATS nabs more drug users in MisOcc

By:Bhal Cabrera

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental – A driver caught using shabu inside his parked wing van was successfully apprehended by Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) members through Citizen’s Arrest, in a clear demonstration of Ozamiz City’s strengthened community-driven anti-drug campaign.

The suspect, identified as Elpedio Pamplona, 38, from Canitoan, Cagayan de Oro City, was found in the act of consuming illegal drugs around 3:00 AM while stationed along the Bangcal-New Road area. His wing van was loaded with solar panels, raising additional concern for public safety.

BPATs patrolling the area became suspicious of the vehicle’s movements and conducted a quick check—only to find Pamplona actively using drug paraphernalia: a lighter with a needle, aluminum foil, and a small container with melted shabu residue. Acting without hesitation, the BPATs executed a Citizen’s Arrest, safely detaining the suspect and securing the vehicle.

Barangay Captain Dionisio Detalla was immediately informed and coordinated with the Ozamiz City Police Station, which responded and took the suspect into custody. The suspect now faces charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. This is the second successful case of Citizen’s Arrest carried out by barangay peacekeepers in Ozamiz, following a similar operation in Barangay Labo.

Both incidents highlight the intensified efforts of the local government to empower communities to directly support peace and order initiatives. Under the leadership of Mayor Indy Oaminal, the City Government of Ozamiz continues to push for the active implementation of Citizen’s Arrest in line with its all-out campaign against illegal drugs.

The administration has made it clear that local enforcers and residents alike have a critical role to play in ensuring a drug-free and crime-free city. The incident serves as a strong message to would-be offenders: in Ozamiz, the law is enforced not just by police, but by the people themselves.