ILOILO City – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) seized P5-million worth of suspected shabu and arrested 20 individuals in a week-long anti-drug operation.
From January 9 to 12, data from IPPO showed that 15 drug operations were conducted across various police stations, leading to the recovery of 762 grams of suspected shabu valued at P5 million.
Among those apprehended, three were classified as high-value targets, while the remaining 17 were street-level suspects.
In its campaign against wanted persons, the IPPO arrested 50 fugitives. Of these, 12 were most wanted for heinous crimes, while 38 faced lesser offenses.
Efforts to curb illegal gambling yielded seven operations, resulting in 10 arrests and the confiscation of P2,110 in bet money.
Meanwhile, two separate operations targeting loose firearms led to the arrest of two individuals and the confiscation of two firearms.
Additionally, 26 firearms were voluntarily surrendered, and five were deposited for safekeeping, bringing the total number of accounted firearms to 33.
The IPPO’s campaign against illegal fishing also made significant headway, with seven operations leading to the arrest of 19 individuals and the confiscation of 14 fishing boats. Authorities estimated the value of the seized fish at P11,670.
Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, IPPO director, commended the efforts of his team and underscored the importance of community support in maintaining peace and order.
“Ilonggo cops kicked off 2025 with notable achievements. Our first Birada Semana highlights our dedication to public safety and the fight against illegal activities. We urge the community to report any suspicious or unlawful activities in their neighborhoods. Together, we can ensure a safer and more secure Iloilo,” said Razalan./PN