ILOILO City – The Iloilo Police Provincial office (IPPO) arrested a total of 480 wanted persons in five months, 90 percent higher compared to last year’s 253 arrests.
Data from the IPPO showed that from January to May 5 this year, 63 persons arrested were included in the top 10 along with 417 other persons.
In 2020, the IPPO had arrested 253 individuals, 214 of whom were in the top 10.
Under the Oplan Tokhang Kontra Armas Luthang (OPLAN TKAL), THE IPPO collected 296 loose firearms this year, 187 of which were surrendered or unregistered, 51 recovered through search warrants, 56 deposited pending renewal of license, and two abandoned.
IPPO director, Police Colonel Gilbert Gorero said these accomplishments were the result of the excellent efforts of police chiefs conducting a non-stop operation.
“The increase in our accomplishments in the arrest of wanted persons and in the number of recoveries in the campaign against loose firearms is a testament of the unwavering support and confidence of the community to their Ilonggo cops,” Gorero said.
He reminded police officers not to rest and to continue their search for persons issued arrest warrants and persons possessing unlicensed firearms.
“This is not yet the time to be complacent. Good performance is not our goal but it must be our lifestyle.”
Gorero said he is closely monitoring his personnel to ensure that directives are carried out and adhered to.
He also said that aside from their focus on anti-criminality and anti-terrorism efforts, they are also paying attention to the implementation of basic COVID-19 health protocols.
“We are at the very challenging times, but rest assured that your Ilonggo cops are unwavering in their commitment to serve and protect.”
The IPPO director congratulated the Barotac Nuevo Police Station under Police Major Rowena Hubero for leading the accomplishments in the campaign against wanted persons with 30 arrests.
The Concepcion Police Station, headed by Police Major Ronnie Brillo, takes the second highest number of arrests with 25.
The Oton, Santa Barbara, Dumangas and Barotac Viejo Police Stations recorded 21 arrests each./PN
