Iloilo Police Seize P44.8 Million in Shabu and Arrest 490 Individuals in Intensive Operations
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has achieved significant milestones in its relentless campaign against criminal activities across the province. From January 1 to February 14, 2026, law enforcement personnel conducted a total of 2,392 operations, resulting in the confiscation of 6,583.90 grams of shabu valued at P44,807,679.96 and the arrest of 490 individuals.
Comprehensive Anti-Drug Efforts Yield Major Results
In the fight against illegal drugs, IPPO executed 47 buy-bust operations, leading to the apprehension of 58 suspects. Among those arrested were 28 high-value individuals (HVIs) and 30 street-value individuals (SVIs). Authorities have filed 112 cases in connection with these anti-drug initiatives, underscoring the scale of the enforcement drive.
Targeted Campaigns Against Various Crimes
Police efforts extended beyond narcotics to address other criminal elements. Operations targeting wanted persons saw 190 actions, resulting in the arrest of 189 individuals, including 69 Most Wanted Persons (MWPs) and 119 Other Wanted Persons (OWPs). One individual voluntarily surrendered during this period.
The crackdown on illegal gambling involved 67 operations, leading to 200 arrests and the confiscation of P53,318 in bet money. Police filed 65 cases in court as part of this campaign.
In the realm of firearms control, 14 operations against loose firearms resulted in 14 arrests and 14 cases filed. A total of 165 firearms were accounted for, with 140 voluntarily surrendered, 14 confiscated, and 11 deposited for safekeeping.
Environmental and resource protection efforts included 17 operations against illegal fishing, resulting in 43 arrests and the apprehension of 33 fishing boats, with confiscated fish valued at P30,060. Additionally, 15 operations against illegal quarrying led to 15 arrests and the impounding of 15 vehicles.
Leadership Highlights Community Cooperation
Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, provincial director of the IPPO, emphasized that these accomplishments reflect intensified police operations and strong community support. He stated, "Our aggressive campaign against crime for a more peaceful and prosperous province continues. These successful operations demonstrate the close cooperation between the police and the community. I thank the public for their continued support, and I assure you that the IPPO will continue to serve with agility, integrity, and in a way that is felt by everyone."
Razalan commended Ilonggo police personnel for their performance and reiterated the importance of sustained enforcement efforts and strengthened collaboration with communities to maintain peace and order in the province.
Future Directions for Enhanced Security
The IPPO has announced plans to continue intensifying operations and reinforcing partnerships with stakeholders. This ongoing commitment aims to ensure the safety and security of both residents and visitors in Iloilo, building on the momentum of recent successes to foster a more secure environment.
