Photo courtesy of CIDG
Authorities arrested a regional most wanted person in Biliran linked to multiple rape and sexual abuse charges, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said.
The suspect, known by the alias Ben, was collared in Barangay Santo Rosario, Naval on May 19 during a manhunt operation led by CIDG Biliran and local police units.
He was arrested by virtue of a warrant issued in March 2023 by a Naval court for four counts of rape and seven counts of lascivious conduct involving a minor.
Police said no bail was recommended for the rape charges, while bail was set at Php 200,000 for each count of sexual abuse under Republic Act No. 7610.
The accused had been listed as the seventh most wanted person at the regional level by Police Regional Office 8 prior to his capture.
Investigators said the case stemmed from a 2020 incident in which the suspect allegedly abused a 14-year-old girl at his residence in Barangay Calumpang.
CIDG Director Robert Morico said the arrest underscored the agency’s push to run after fugitives, especially those accused of crimes against women and children.
The CIDG said operations against wanted persons will continue as part of its campaign to ensure justice for victims and hold offenders accountable.