By Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) arrested 24 law violators and confiscated PHP1.2 million worth of illegal drugs during a weeklong anti-drugs operation from Feb. 16 to 22, according to a report on Tuesday.
PRO-5 spokesperson Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib said that a total of 23 operations were conducted during the period, and 33 criminal cases have been filed against the arrested suspects.
“About 5.2 grams of marijuana and 180 grams of shabu were confiscated,” she said in her report.
Calubaquib added that PRO-5 assures the public that it will maintain aggressive and community-centered operations to ensure a safer, drug-free Bicol Region.
In connection with illegal fishing, police units also apprehended 27 individuals in the region.
A total of 15 coordinated operations were carried out in various coastal areas, resulting in the seizure of illegal fishing equipment, including prohibited nets, dynamite and other destructive gear, valued at PHP340,650.
On illegal gambling, PRO- 5 nabbed 26 individuals and confiscation of PHP13,000 in betting money across the region.
In the campaign against loose firearms, police operatives conducted 22 “kontra boga” and “bilang boga” operations, resulting in the arrest of eight individuals suspected of illegal possession and trafficking of firearms.
In total, 26 assorted firearms were confiscated from suspects or voluntarily surrendered by civilians, and an additional eight were turned in for safekeeping.
PRO- 5 chief Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda said the measures are part of a broader strategy to reduce gun-related crimes, enhance public safety and support law enforcement in monitoring the circulation of illegal firearms.
“Our ultimate goal is to make communities safer by addressing the root causes of gun- related incidents,” he said. (PNA)
