ILOILO City – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) arrested 44 drug suspects and confiscated P10-million worth of illegal drugs in a series of operations throughout February.
Data from the IPPO showed that law enforcement conducted 36 anti-drug operations, resulting in the seizure of 1,445.03 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P10 million.
Among those arrested were 11 high-value individuals (HVIs) and 39 street-level suspects.
In its campaign against individuals with outstanding warrants, the IPPO apprehended 88 persons in separate operations. Of these, 22 were among the top 10 most wanted individuals in Western Visayas, while 66 were facing lesser charges.
The police also intensified efforts against illegal gambling, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the confiscation of P397 in bet money.
Meanwhile, 22 operations targeting loose firearms resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals and the recovery of 20 firearms. Additionally, 37 firearms were voluntarily surrendered, while 23 were deposited for safekeeping, bringing the total to 80 firearms accounted for.
In the campaign against illegal fishing, the IPPO conducted 16 operations, leading to the arrest of 39 individuals and the apprehension of 24 fishing boats. Authorities also confiscated fish products valued at P18,830.
Enforcement actions against illegal quarrying yielded 27 operations, resulting in the apprehension of 28 individuals and the impoundment of 28 vehicles used in unauthorized quarrying activities.
IPPO director Police Colonel Bayani Razalan commended the dedication of his personnel and the community’s cooperation in crime prevention.
“These accomplishments underscore our unwavering commitment to public safety and the strong cooperation between the police and the people of Iloilo. We urge the public to continue supporting our efforts by reporting criminal activities. Together, we can maintain a safer, more peaceful, and drug-free province,” Razalan said./PN
