ILOILO City – The Regional Maritime Unit 6 (RMU-6) reported significant accomplishments in its campaigns against illegal fishing, fugitives, and illegal drugs in 2024.
A total of 428 individuals were apprehended for illegal fishing, while 609 wanted persons were arrested across Western Visayas.
According to RMU-6 records, of the 428 apprehended illegal fishers, 106 faced court charges, while 322 were fined for lesser offenses.
The unit’s operations were conducted in collaboration with other government agencies to ensure effective enforcement.
RMU-6 also made strides in tracking down fugitives. Among the 609 arrested individuals, 129 were categorized as part of the top 10 most wanted lists, and 408 faced charges for minor offenses.
In its anti-drug efforts, RMU-6 participated in 92 joint operations with drug enforcement units, resulting in the arrest of drug pushers.
Colonel Juritz Rara, RMU-6 commander, commended the dedication of his team and their close coordination with other government agencies. He vowed to intensify operations in 2025, particularly against illegal fishers, fugitives, and drug-related crimes.
“We need to tighten our campaign against illegal fishers to protect marine life and preserve resources for small-scale fishermen,” Rara said./PN
