The Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) reported that a 46-year-old foreign national who had been involved in a vehicle accident was taken into custody just before boarding his flight to Manila during a hot pursuit operation at Puerto Princesa International Airport on 22 January.

According to the PNP-AVSEGROUP, the operation was conducted by the joint forces of the Police Station 5-Puerto Princesa City Police Office and the Puerto Princesa International Airport Police Station.

The defendant was charged with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and bodily injury after reportedly being involved in a car accident along the National Highway in Barangay Maoyon, Puerto Princesa City earlier that day.

When authorities discovered that the suspect had attempted to evade arrest by scheduling a flight to Manila, they coordinated with airport officials to apprehend him.

After being arrested inside the airport’s departure area, the suspect is currently in the custody of the San Rafael Police Station 5 for further legal proceedings and documentation.

PNP-AVSEGROUP director PBGen Christopher M. Abecia commended the successful coordination between the participating police units.

“Our unwavering dedication to justice and public safety is demonstrated by this operation. Regardless of their attempts to flee, let this serve as a reminder that everyone will be held accountable by the law,” Abecia said.