132 arrested in weeklong anti-crime operations across Cagayan Valley

Police operations across the Cagayan Valley led to the arrest of 132 individuals as authorities intensified their campaign against criminality from September 24 to 30.

The Police Regional Office 2 said 66 wanted persons were arrested during the weeklong operations, including four individuals listed as most wanted.

Police also conducted 18 anti-illegal drug operations that resulted in the arrest of 20 drug suspects and the confiscation of 14.419 grams of suspected shabu and 47.386 grams of suspected marijuana. The seized drugs had a combined estimated standard drug price of P103,254.32.

Meanwhile, 24 individuals were arrested in nine operations against illegal gambling.

Seven persons were also arrested in separate operations involving violations of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. Police confiscated six firearms during the operations.

Aside from the confiscations, authorities also recorded the surrender or recovery of 51 firearms and two explosives through police operations and the cooperation of residents and other stakeholders.

Three persons were arrested in separate operations against illegal logging under Presidential Decree 705, resulting in the seizure of 668 board feet of lumber valued at an estimated P44,480.

PBGen Mariano C. Rodriguez, regional director of PRO2, said police would continue strengthening operations and partnerships with communities to prevent criminal activities and maintain peace and security in the region.

“We will continue to strengthen our operations and our partnerships to keep our communities safe,” Rodriguez said, while urging the public to report unlawful activities and cooperate with authorities in preventing violations of the law.

He said sustained law enforcement, prompt police response and community participation remain important in keeping communities across Cagayan Valley safe and orderly.

The operations form part of the Philippine National Police’s efforts under the Chief PNP’s Focused Agenda to strengthen police visibility, law enforcement and community partnerships across the region.