Police in Bicol have arrested the region’s 10 most wanted persons, most of them facing rape charges, in a series of manhunt operations.
Police Regional Office-5 Director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. said the arrests were made possible through intelligence-driven initiatives and intensified pursuit operations.
“These arrests show that the law will always catch up with those who choose to violate it. Our communities deserve peace, and PRO 5 will do everything within its mandate to protect them,” Babagay said.
Among those arrested was alias “Joe” of Rapu-Rapu, Albay, wanted for 21 counts of attempted qualified rape. He was captured on September 6 at the Port of Calatagan in Batangas City.
Alias “Wil,” 54, facing qualified rape by sexual assault, was nabbed on September 12 in Daraga, Albay, while alias “Enteng,” wanted for murder, was caught on September 13 in Labo, Camarines Norte.
Other suspects arrested included those wanted for statutory rape, drug-related charges, child abuse, and qualified rape of a minor.
Police said the arrests underscore their commitment to ensuring peace and order in Bicol communities.