The Police Regional Office for the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has reported a significant breakthrough in its fight against criminality, with a total of 134 wanted persons apprehended during a 10-day Simultaneous Anti-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operations (Sacleo) initiative. This intensive campaign, which ran from February 4 to 14, 2026, underscores the region's commitment to enhancing public safety and order.
Comprehensive Arrests Across the Region
According to official records released by PRO-NIR, the operations spanned the entire Negros Island Region, resulting in 134 arrests. Among those detained were 37 individuals classified as most wanted persons, alongside 97 others facing various criminal charges. Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, emphasized that these arrests were the outcome of coordinated efforts by multiple police units.
Key participating agencies included:
- Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo)
- Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo)
- Siquijor Police Provincial Office (SPPO)
- Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO)
Multi-Faceted Anti-Crime Campaign
Beyond the arrests of wanted persons, PRO-NIR intensified its operations across several critical areas. In the anti-illegal drug campaign, 78 operations were conducted, leading to the arrest of 83 drug personalities. Authorities seized approximately 625.9 grams of shabu, with an estimated market value of P4,249,320. All suspects involved in drug-related activities have been charged under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Simultaneously, the campaign against illegal firearms saw 88 focused operations, resulting in the arrest of 20 individuals. Law enforcement confiscated 20 loose firearms, recovered five explosives, and secured the voluntary surrender of 64 unlicensed firearms. This effort highlights the proactive measures taken to curb weapon-related violence.
In the fight against illegal gambling, PRO-NIR executed 39 operations, arresting 104 individuals and seizing P18,097 in bet money. These actions demonstrate a holistic approach to addressing various forms of criminality that threaten community welfare.
Commitment to Public Safety
Lieutenant Colonel Malong stated that the successful implementation of Sacleo reflects PRO-NIR's unwavering dedication to protecting the residents of the Negros Island Region. Through sustained, intelligence-driven, and coordinated operations, the office aims to dismantle criminal networks and ensure accountability for offenders.
"PRO-NIR remains steadfast in its mission and resolute in its vow to intensify operations against all forms of criminality," she added. The strategy relies on strengthened partnerships and robust community support to maintain a firm, focused, and fearless pursuit of lasting peace and order across the region.
This comprehensive anti-crime initiative not only addresses immediate threats but also fosters a safer environment for all citizens, reinforcing the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts in achieving sustainable security outcomes.
