05/06/2023
PNP ANTI-CRIME SWEEP IN CARAGA NETS 267 WANTED PERSONS
The Philippine National Police has achieved a remarkable feat in its intensive operations against individuals with standing warrants of arrest in Caraga region. In the month of May alone, Police Regional Office 13 successfully apprehended 267 wanted persons, bolstering the region's law enforcement efforts.
Out of the total number of arrests made, 46 individuals were classified as most wanted persons, while the remaining 220 were categorized as other wanted persons. This operation is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Caraga police in ensuring the safety and security of its communities.
Leading the charge in this successful campaign was the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO), which apprehended the highest number of wanted persons with an impressive tally of 64 arrests. Among those captured was the region's number one most wanted person, Joel Belandres, also known as "Abarka." Belandres, a 51-year-old member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), faced charges for three counts of murder, five counts of frustrated murder, and attempted murder. As a former member of the Weakened Guerilla Front 19, Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), he participated in numerous CTG atrocities in Caraga.
Other notable contributions came from the Butuan City Police Office with 59 arrests, Agusan del Sur PPO with 55, Surigao del Norte PPO with 52, Agusan del Norte with 28, and Dinagat Islands PPO with nine. The collective efforts of these police offices resulted in significant strides toward upholding the rule of law in Caraga.
In terms of categorization, five individuals were considered most wanted persons at the regional level, while 16 were at the provincial level, and 26 at the municipal level. These figures highlight the comprehensive approach taken by the PNP Caraga in addressing wanted personalities across different jurisdictions.
PRO 13 Regional Director, PBGEN PABLO G LABRA II, expressed his appreciation for the dedication and hard work displayed by the operatives on the ground. He stated, "These figures are the translations of the efforts exerted by our operatives on the ground to account for individuals sought by the law. The relentless campaign continues to ensure that our streets are peaceful and safe from the presence of wanted personalities."
Meanwhile, PNP Chief, PGen Benjamin Acorda Jr., commended the police operatives for their outstanding performance in apprehending these wanted persons. He remarked, "The successful operations conducted by the PNP Caraga demonstrate the unwavering commitment of our police force to maintain peace and order in our communities. I extend my sincerest appreciation to the dedicated men and women who risk their lives daily to bring criminals to justice. Your actions serve as an inspiration to all law enforcement personnel across the country."
PRO 13’s resolute efforts in apprehending wanted individuals are a testament to their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the region.
The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and the rule of law, creating an environment where citizens can live without fear and with a renewed sense of peace and security.
