ILOILO – This province’s No. 5 most wanted man has been captured on May 21 during a manhunt operation conducted by the Balasan Municipal Police Station (MPS).
The suspect identified as alias “Celino”, 55, and a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Mamhut Norte, Balasan town, was collared around 9 a.m. in the town’s Sitio Malbog, Barangay Tingui-an.
According to Captain Renzo A. Martinez, officer-in-charge of the Balasan MPS, the arrest was made possible through information relayed by concerned citizens.
Acting swiftly, the station’s tracker team carried out a surveillance operation and immediately moved in to serve the arrest warrant for Acts of Lasciviousness and Acts of Lasciviousness in relation to Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, issued by the Regional Trial Court – Branch 66 in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.
The suspect was detained at the Balasan MPS. A P180,000 bail bond was recommended for his temporary liberty.
Police Colonel Roland V. Bulalacao, officer-in-charge of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), commended the Balasan police for their efficient and swift action in apprehending the suspect.
“I would like to commend the Balasan MPS Tracker Team for their outstanding work and swift response to community information, which contributed significantly to this success,” Bulalacao said.
He added: “This accomplishment highlights the unwavering dedication of our Ilonggo cops and the strong support from the Ilonggo community. Your IPPO is fully committed to apprehending all fugitives and bringing them to justice, ensuring a safer Iloilo for everyone.”/PN
