Three wanted persons facing serious criminal charges were arrested in separate police operations in San Juan and Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, on 5 February, according to the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office (ISPPO).

The coordinated operations, led by Provincial Director PCOL Agosto M. Asuncion, resulted in the capture of individuals wanted for statutory rape, sexual assault, and drug violations.

At around 5:30 p.m., the San Juan Municipal Police Station arrested a 19-year-old male in Barangay Lira, identified as the municipality’s No. 2 Most Wanted Person, for Statutory Rape under Article 266-A (1) of the Revised Penal Code. The warrant was issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 24 in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, with no bail recommended.

Later, at 6:10 p.m., San Juan police also arrested an 18-year-old female, the Top 3 Most Wanted Person, in Barangay Immayos Norte for Sexual Assault under Article 266-A (2) in relation to Republic Act No. 7610, carrying two criminal cases with a recommended bail of P200,000 each.

By 8:20 p.m., operatives from the Magsingal Municipal Police Station, assisted by the Regional Intelligence Division and 1st Ilocos Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company, nabbed a 23-year-old male in Barangay San Lucas. The suspect, No. 4 in the Municipal Most Wanted List, was arrested for violating Sections 11 and 12 of Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

PCOL Asuncion praised the efforts of the operating units, emphasizing the police force’s consistent drive to uphold the rule of law.

“These arrests show that justice will always catch up with those who try to evade it,” Asuncion said.

He also encouraged the public to continue cooperating with authorities in providing information that can help track down fugitives and maintain peace and order in the province.