Western Visayas Police Apprehend Three High-Ranking Most Wanted Fugitives in Coordinated Operations
Operatives from the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) successfully arrested three high-ranking most wanted persons in separate, meticulously planned law enforcement operations conducted on March 3, 2026. The arrests took place across Iloilo Province, Iloilo City, and Antique, marking a significant achievement in the region's intensified campaign against fugitives charged with serious criminal offenses.
Regional Director Commends Coordinated Efforts and Vows Continued Pursuit
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the director of PRO 6, publicly commended the operating units for their exceptional coordination and effectiveness in these arrests. He emphasized the unwavering commitment of the regional police force to its ongoing campaign against wanted individuals. "The successful arrest of these high-ranking wanted persons reflects our intensified manhunt operations and strong inter-unit coordination," Ligan stated. "We assure the public that PRO 6 will not relent in its pursuit of fugitives. Justice may take time, but we will ensure it is served."
Detailed Breakdown of the Three Separate Arrests
The operations targeted individuals with serious charges, and bail was not recommended in any of the cases, underscoring the gravity of the alleged crimes.
Arrest in Antique: In Barangay Patria, Pandan, Antique, around 5:30 p.m., police apprehended an individual known as alias Franz. He was identified as the third most wanted person at the provincial level. Authorities served a warrant of arrest for statutory rape issued by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 13, in Culasi, Antique. The arrest was executed by the Pandan Municipal Police Station with crucial assistance from the 2nd Antique Provincial Field Force Mobile Company and the Maritime Police Station of Antique.
Arrest in Iloilo Province: At 7:43 p.m. in Barangay Tabucan, Dumangas, Iloilo Province, operatives captured alias Kian, who was ranked as the seventh most wanted person at the provincial level. Police served three separate warrants of arrest for rape by carnal knowledge issued by the Family Court of the 6th Judicial Region in Dumangas, Iloilo. This operation was led by the Dumangas Municipal Police Station, supported by the Iloilo Police Provincial Office Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Ippo Special Operations Group, and the Provincial Highway Patrol Team in Western Visayas Iloilo.
Arrest in Iloilo City: Around 9 p.m. in Barangay Sooc, Arevalo District, Iloilo City, authorities arrested alias RM, listed as the second most wanted person at the city level. The arrest was made for statutory rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act 8353 and further amended by RA 11648.
Intensified Manhunt Operations and Call for Public Support
Police officials confirmed that these operations are a core component of intensified manhunt efforts being conducted across the entire Western Visayas region. The primary objective is to locate and apprehend fugitives who are facing charges for serious criminal activities. Director Ligan highlighted that PRO 6 will continue to strengthen coordination among all police units to enhance the efficiency of tracking and arresting wanted persons.
Furthermore, the regional director made a direct appeal to the public, urging citizens to actively support law enforcement authorities. He encouraged the community to provide timely and accurate information that could assist police in tracking down fugitives and ensuring community safety.
The PRO 6 has provided a firm assurance to the public that these intensified manhunt operations will persist throughout the region. The goal remains steadfast: to ensure that all wanted persons are brought before the courts to be held fully accountable for their alleged crimes, thereby upholding justice and reinforcing public security.
