Operatives from the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) arrested at least 73 drug suspects, 71 wanted individuals, 84 gamblers and four people for illegal possession of firearms during a weeklong anti-illegal drug and anti-criminality operation.

QCPD acting director Col. Melecio Buslig Jr. said the arrests occurred from 16 to 22 February 2025, adding that the campaign against illegal drugs involved 47 operations, resulting in the arrest of 73 suspects and the confiscation of illegal drugs valued at P3,246,056.

In operations targeting wanted persons, 71 individuals were arrested, including 24 listed as most wanted and 47 others with outstanding warrants.

Among those arrested were Maricel Ben wanted for qualified theft, who had evaded arrest for 16 years and Amid Sese, listed as the No. 4 most wanted person by the La Loma Police Station who was arrested for violating the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. Sese had been at large for nine years.

Also included were Norberto Bordadora Escalera, listed as the No. 1 most wanted person by the Novaliches Police Station, who was arrested for murder. Escalera had eluded capture for eight years and Alberto Pelilio Yanong, who was arrested for violating a city ordinance, and had been in hiding for seven years.

Police said the respective courts of origin were notified of the arrests.

In operations against illegal gambling, 41 operations led to the arrest of 84 gamblers and the confiscation of P28,686 in bet money.

Additionally, four operations against illegal firearms resulted in the recovery of four firearms and the arrest of four individuals.

“The arrest of wanted persons and those involved in illegal activities is proof that we are serious in our campaign against crime,” Buslig said. “Expect that we will further intensify our operations for the welfare of the public.”

He added that the QCPD has been conducting intensified operations to combat crime and illegal activities within its jurisdiction and operations reflect the police’s commitment to ensuring public safety and order.

The confiscated drugs and firearms were brought to the police headquarters for proper documentation and disposition, while the arrested individuals were detained and will face appropriate charges in court.