PRO1 arrests two of region’s Top 10 Most Wanted in manhunt operations

Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) recorded major gains in its intensified campaign against fugitives from justice after arresting two individuals listed among the region’s Top 10 Most Wanted Persons in separate manhunt operations conducted on 30 and 31 January.

On 30 January, operatives of the Sudipen Municipal Police Station, together with personnel from the Regional Intelligence Division 1 (RID1), RIU1/PIT La Union, RIDMD, LUPIU, and LUPIDMU, arrested the region’s Top 3 Most Wanted Person during a focused manhunt operation in Barangay Ipet, Sudipen, La Union.

The suspect was identified as Benedict Barreto y Lagota, alias “JB,” a 33-year-old sales assistant and resident of Barangay Lucap, Alaminos City, Pangasinan. He was arrested for sexual assault and acts of lasciviousness based on a warrant issued on 22 December 2025, by the Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region, Branch 34, Balaoan, La Union.

A day later, on January 31, joint operatives from the Aringay Municipal Police Station, RID1, LUPIU, and LUPIDMU arrested Giovan Angelo Soriano Abellera, 23, a former resident of Barangay San Benito Sur, Aringay, La Union, who is listed as the Top 2 Most Wanted Person at the regional level. Abellera was captured at Barangay Calumpang, BFCT East Metro Transport Terminal in Marikina City, Metro Manila.

Abellera was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest for rape issued by the Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region, Branch 33, Bauang, La Union, dated 26 January 2026, with no bail recommended.

Both suspects are now under police custody and undergoing proper disposition in accordance with the law.

PRO1 Regional Director PBGen. Dindo R. Reyes underscored the importance of enforcing warrants in cases involving crimes against persons, particularly offenses that violate human dignity and public morality.

“The arrest of individuals wanted for sexual offenses sends a strong message that PRO1 stands firmly with the victims. We recognize the pain endured by those affected, and we remain committed to ensuring that justice is not only promised but carried out,” Reyes said.