Camp Gen. Simeon Ola, headquarters of Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO-5). (PNA file photo)
LEGAZPI CITY – Some PHP7.3 million worth of illegal drugs were seized in weeklong simultaneous anti-criminality law enforcement operations (SACLEO) in the Bicol region from June 19-25.
Brig. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque, Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO5) chief, said 36 anti-drug operations were conducted by different stations and units during the period.
Seized were 1,085.5 grams of shabu and dried marijuana leaves from 44 arrested individuals.
"One notable arrest was that of Edgar Adolfo, a high-value individual of Purok 1, Barangay Arado, Uson town in Masbate province. During an entrapment operation, he was found in possession of approximately 1.005 kilograms of shabu with an estimated value of PHP6.8 million," he said in a report on Tuesday.
PRO5 also seized nine firearms from seven operations conducted during the period while 61 assorted firearms were voluntarily turned in for safekeeping by members of the community.
Authorities also arrested 13 most wanted persons and 132 other individuals on the most wanted list.
PRO5 also targeted illegal gambling activities, seizing PHP42,123 in bet money and arresting 110 individuals.
Obinque said the success of the operations can be attributed not only to the focused and intensified police efforts but also to the enhanced collaboration between PRO5 and the community.
“By working together as partners, we aim to create a safer and more peaceful environment for everyone. In doing so, we shall actively engage with our advocacy support groups and force multipliers to effectively implement our initiatives in promoting public safety and the general welfare of the Bicolanos," he added. (PNA)
