A man wanted for rape with homicide was arrested in Pasay City nearly nine years after he went into hiding, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Saturday.

The 43-year-old suspect, listed as a most wanted person, was arrested Friday along Apelo Cruz Extension in Barangay 174 by operatives of the Pasay City Police Station’s Sub-Station 6 following intelligence-driven manhunt operations.

Police said the suspect is also a member of the Commando Gang.

The arrest was made on the strength of a warrant issued by the Iloilo City Regional Trial Court on 13 Dec. 2017. The court recommended no bail because of the gravity of the charge.

Following his arrest, the suspect was taken to the Pasay City Police Station for documentation before being turned over to the issuing court.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the arrest underscores the police force’s commitment to pursuing fugitives regardless of how long they evade authorities.

“Justice does not expire. The PNP will relentlessly pursue fugitives and ensure that those accused of heinous crimes are brought before the courts to answer for their actions,” Nartatez said.

“The length of time spent in hiding is no obstacle to the law. We will track down and arrest every fugitive until they are brought before the courts,” he added.