Police in Central Luzon arrested 244 suspects and seized more than P4.35 million worth of illegal drugs in a series of anti-crime operations conducted over the past week, authorities said.

The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) reported that it carried out 169 anti-drug operations across the region, resulting in the confiscation of more than 600 grams of shabu and over 60 grams of marijuana.

Beyond illegal drugs, law enforcement operations also led to the arrest of 30 individuals for firearms violations under Republic Act No. 10591. A total of 42 firearms were recovered, surrendered, or confiscated, while five additional firearms were voluntarily turned in for safekeeping.

Police also arrested 165 wanted persons, including 39 individuals listed as most wanted in their respective areas.

“Our teams are staying focused – we’re going after those who break the law, but we make sure every step follows proper procedures,” said PRO3 Regional Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr.

He said the intensified operations form part of the Philippine National Police’s nationwide anti-crime campaign and emphasized continued coordination with local communities to maintain peace and order in Central Luzon.