CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — In a major push against crime, Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) recently nabbed five of Central Luzon’s Most Wanted in coordinated raids across Nueva Ecija, Bataan and Pampanga on 4 and 5 August.

Regional Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. said the arrests show their firm resolve to hold lawbreakers accountable. “We’re sending a strong message: criminals have nowhere to hide in Central Luzon,” he said.

Among those caught was “Herald,” who ranks as the Top 5 Most Wanted in Nueva Ecija and No. 1 in Talavera, arrested in Cabanatuan City for statutory rape, with bail denied. “Jay,” the Top 9 Most Wanted in Bataan, was apprehended in Bagac for two counts of lascivious conduct, with bail set at P400,000. “John,” ranked Regional No. 5 and City No. 1 Most Wanted in Cabanatuan, was arrested for statutory rape and violation of RA 7610; bail was denied for the rape charge and set at P200,000 for the other offense. “Navs,” Top 4 Most Wanted in Bataan, was caught in Balanga City for drug-related offenses under RA 9165, with no bail recommended. Lastly, “Sam,” ranked Top 8 Most Wanted in Pampanga, was arrested in Minalin for qualified theft, with bail set at P120,000.

The arrests were the result of well-coordinated operations, showcasing the strength of police intelligence and teamwork.

Peñones Jr. assured the public that PRO3 will keep up the pressure on criminals. “We won’t stop until every threat to our communities is behind bars,” he said.