Four individuals were arrested by police officers in an anti-illegal gambling operation at around 2:30 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, in Barangay 17, Panarattan, Paoay, Ilocos Norte.

The operation was launched following an intelligence-driven investigation targeting violators of Presidential Decree 1602 as amended by Republic Act 9287, which penalizes illegal gambling activities.

Arrested were identified as Ben Sumbingo Jr. y Borja, 48, of Barangay 5 Nalasin, Paoay; Sanny Bagasol y Bacud, 53, of Barangay Mumulaan, Paoay; Jonathan Bibi’s y Lozano, 38, a native of Barangay South Baliwag, Pilar, Abra; and Rigiemar Sadang y Bautista, 40, of Barangay 18 Veronica, Paoay.

According to police, the suspects were caught in the act of playing the card game locally known as “Rakatak” with bet money at a local billiard establishment identified as Trinity Corner Pocket Club. Recovered from the scene were 52 pieces of playing cards and wagered cash amounting to ₱10,643 in various denominations, along with two Android cellphones, a black wallet containing several IDs and cards, and one wooden table used in the gambling session.

The operation was documented through a body-worn camera and other recording equipment. Witnesses to the inventory of seized items were Barangay Kagawads Mateo Pundo and Arcayna of Barangay 17, Panarattan.

The arrested individuals were informed of their constitutional rights and underwent medical examination. They, along with the confiscated evidence, were brought to the Paoay MPS for investigation.

Charges for violation of PD 1602, as amended by RA 9287, will be filed against the suspects through an inquest proceeding at the Provincial Prosecution Office.