ILOILO – Police here scored a major breakthrough against fugitives after arresting two of their most wanted men — both facing rape charges — in separate operations on Saturday, Aug. 31.
Alias “Jo,” 20, a student from Barangay Poblacion, San Dionisio, and ranked as the province’s No. 3 most wanted person, was captured at around 9 a.m. in his home through a warrant of arrest. He was accused of raping his former girlfriend earlier this year.
According to San Dionisio police chief Captain Ma. Rosela Buenvenida, officers had been monitoring the suspect before moving in.
“He did not resist when he saw his warrant and he is now detained in our station,” Buenvenida said.
Barely an hour later, police arrested alias “Paulo,” 54, a farmer from Barangay Poblacion, Leon, and the province’s No. 4 most wanted person. He faces four counts of rape under Republic Act 7610 for allegedly raping a minor. He is detained at the Leon Police Station.
No bail was recommended for both suspects.
Iloilo Police Provincial Office director Colonel Bayani Razalan hailed the twin arrests as proof of sustained manhunt efforts.
“We will continue to run after persons who have standing cases,” Razalan said.
Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) director Brigadier General Josefino Ligan also commended the accomplishment.
“The arrest of these most wanted is a clear manifestation of our unyielding commitment to protect our people and ensure that justice is served. This accomplishment shows that the PRO-6 will never tire in pursuing criminals and safeguarding our communities,” Ligan said./PN
