PNP Apprehends 1,245 Individuals In Anti E-Sabong Nationwide Operation
Photo credit: PGen. Benjamin Acorda Jr
In a resounding display of commitment to upholding the law and ensuring societal order, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has successfully apprehended a total of 1,245 individuals as part of a sweeping anti-illegal gambling operation targeting the pervasive issue of E-Sabong.
The operation, conducted collaboratively across various Police Regional Offices and National Support Units (NSUs) nationwide, spanned from July 1, 2022, to August 15, 2023.
Data sourced from the PNP Crime Incident Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS) as of August 17, 2023, sheds light on the substantial progress achieved in the fight against E-Sabong activities. Among the apprehended suspects, a staggering 437 cases have been referred to prosecutors for further legal proceedings, while 808 cases are already in the process of being tried before the courts. Most notably, an impressive 322 cases have resulted in the conviction of the accused, showcasing the effectiveness of the operation.
Leading the charge, Police Regional Office 7 achieved remarkable results by taking custody of 348 suspects. Among these cases, 123 have been referred to prosecutors, while 225 cases have been forwarded to the courts for prosecution. Meanwhile, Police Regional Office 3 closely followed with 328 arrests, 170 of which have been referred to prosecutors, and 158 cases are undergoing trial before the courts.
The instrumental role played by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) cannot be understated, as it apprehended 200 suspects in this operation. Out of these cases, 27 have been referred to prosecutors for further legal proceedings, while 187 cases are poised for court action.
PNP Chief, Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr., expressed his commendation for the dedicated police operatives and emphasized the profound impact of their collective efforts. He stated, "The extensive crackdown on E-Sabong illegal gambling underscores our unwavering commitment to the rule of law. The significant number of arrests demonstrates that the PNP remains steadfast in maintaining peace and order in our communities. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who violate the law, ensuring that justice prevails for the betterment of society."
In response to the successful operation, a resolute call has been made by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary, Atty. Benhur Abalos Jr., urging the PNP to escalate their efforts against E-Sabong nationwide. The directive underscores the accountability of Regional Directors in areas plagued by rampant E-Sabong activities. This proactive stance reaffirms the commitment to eradicating illegal gambling and fostering a safer environment for all citizens.