ILOILO – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has apprehended 23 wanted criminals and confiscated illegal drugs valued at approximately P5.5 million throughout July.
According to IPPO data, from July 1 to July 31, operations targeted individuals with pending cases, capturing 18 who were among the top 10 most wanted in Western Visayas.
In a broader crackdown, IPPO conducted 29 operations against drug-related crimes, resulting in the arrest of 35 suspects found in possession of 810 grams of shabu.
Additionally, the police force tackled illegal gambling and fishing activities, leading to the arrest of 12 individuals in five gambling raids and 80 fishermen in 30 operations against unauthorized fishing practices.
Enforcement actions extended to illegal quarrying, with 38 operations successfully apprehending 41 truck drivers and impounding their vehicles.
The initiative against loose firearms also made headway, with the police recovering 72 unregistered firearms. Of these, 64 were voluntarily surrendered by owners, three were deposited at police stations due to expired documentation, and five were seized during arrests.
Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, the IPPO director, commended the efforts of the police force and highlighted the crucial role of community support in these achievements.
“These achievements reflect the dedication of our personnel and the vital support from the Ilonggo community. Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we will keep Iloilo safe and secure,” said Razalan./PN
