Caraga Region, Philippines - In a successful month-long operation, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has apprehended a staggering total of 267 wanted persons in Caraga region. This achievement highlights the unwavering commitment of the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) in combating crime and ensuring the safety of local communities.
Among the apprehended individuals, 46 were classified as most wanted persons, while the remaining 220 were categorized as other wanted persons. This comprehensive anti-crime sweep signifies the dedication of the Caraga police to maintain law and order throughout the region.
The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) emerged as the frontrunner in this successful campaign, accounting for the highest number of arrests with an impressive tally of 64 apprehensions. Notably, among those captured was Joel Belandres, also known as "Abarka," the region's number one most wanted person. Belandres, a 51-year-old member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), faced charges for multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. As a former member of the CTG's Weakened Guerilla Front 19, Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG), North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), he was involved in various CTG-related atrocities in Caraga.
Several other police offices made significant contributions to the operation. The Butuan City Police Office apprehended 59 wanted persons, followed by the Agusan del Sur PPO with 55 arrests, Surigao del Norte PPO with 52, Agusan del Norte with 28, and Dinagat Islands PPO with nine. The combined efforts of these police offices reflect the collective commitment to uphold the rule of law in Caraga.
The apprehended individuals were categorized based on jurisdiction, with five considered most wanted at the regional level, 16 at the provincial level, and 26 at the municipal level. This inclusive approach demonstrates the PNP Caraga's comprehensive strategy in dealing with wanted personalities across different areas.
PRO 13 Regional Director, PBGEN PABLO G LABRA II, expressed his appreciation for the dedication and hard work exhibited by the operatives involved in the operation. He stated, "These figures represent the efforts exerted by our operatives on the ground to apprehend individuals sought by the law. The relentless campaign continues to ensure our streets are peaceful and safe from the presence of wanted personalities."
PNP Chief, PGen Benjamin Acorda Jr., commended the police operatives for their exceptional performance in capturing the wanted persons. He remarked, "The successful operations conducted by the PNP Caraga demonstrate our police force's unwavering commitment to maintaining 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." The PRO 13's relentless efforts in apprehending wanted individuals stand as a testament to their unwavering dedication 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.