ILOILO City – With just days to go before the May 12 national and local elections, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has intensified its campaign against criminality, netting 509 individuals in a series of operations throughout April.
The month-long police efforts, aimed at creating a safer environment for the elections, resulted in 431 operations across Western Visayas. These included arrests of 164 individuals for illegal drug offenses, 68 for illegal gambling, 233 wanted persons, and 44 for possession of loose firearms.
In addition, 122 assorted firearms were either surrendered or deposited at police stations across the region as part of the campaign to reduce the risk of violence during the election period.
PRO-6 director Brigadier General Jack L. Wanky emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order in the run-up to the polls.
“These accomplishments reflect your hard work and commitment to your duty. But as we near election day, I urge you to double your efforts in going after lawless elements to ensure that our people can vote freely and safely,” Wanky told law enforcement personnel.
He also called on the public to play an active role in maintaining security by reporting suspicious individuals or activities in their communities.
“The safety of our electoral process depends not only on the police but also on the vigilance of the community,” he added./PN
