Eastern Visayas Police Intensify March 2026 Crackdown, Netting 757 Arrests and P17.9M in Seized Contraband
In a sweeping series of law enforcement actions throughout March 2026, police across Eastern Visayas have reported significant successes, arresting a total of 757 individuals and confiscating illegal drugs, firearms, contraband, and other prohibited items with an estimated value of P17,892,902.95. The operations, which spanned various anti-criminality campaigns, underscore a heightened commitment to public safety and order in the region.
Regional Director Issues Stern Warning to Lawless Elements
Regional Director Brigadier General Jason Capoy, speaking on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, emphasized the unwavering resolve of the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8). "These accomplishments serve as a warning to all lawless elements that PRO-8 remains relentless and committed to enforcing the law and ensuring the safety and security of our communities," Capoy declared. He further commended the dedicated police personnel involved in the operations, highlighting their crucial role in the region's security efforts.
Detailed Breakdown of Operations and Seizures
The intensified police activities targeted a wide range of illegal activities, with notable results in several key areas:
- Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign: A total of 103 operations were conducted, leading to the arrest of 137 individuals. Authorities seized 540.63 grams of illegal drugs, valued at approximately P3,657,308.59.
- Anti-Insurgency Efforts: Supporting the campaign against communist rebels, 30 individuals voluntarily surrendered. Police confiscated, surrendered, or recovered 23 firearms and explosives during these operations.
- Anti-Smuggling Operations: PRO-8 launched 17 operations targeting cigarette smuggling, resulting in the arrest of two suspects and the confiscation of 555 packs and 22 reams of smuggled cigarettes, worth an estimated P75,690.00. In anti-petroleum smuggling, three operations led to the arrest of five individuals and the seizure or surrender of about 1,920 liters of petroleum products, valued at P203,276.00.
- Anti-Illegal Fishing and Logging: Out of 203 anti-illegal fishing operations, 363 individuals were arrested, with fishing paraphernalia worth P13,496,976.00 and fish catch valued at P99,080.00 confiscated. Additionally, 38 anti-illegal logging operations resulted in 26 arrests and the confiscation, surrender, or recovery of 4,685.06 board feet of illegal lumber, estimated at P319,178.36.
- Firearms and Gambling Crackdowns: In the campaign against illegal possession of firearms and explosives, 181 operations led to the confiscation, surrender, and recovery of 202 firearms and explosive devices. On anti-illegal gambling, police conducted 83 operations, yielding 224 arrests and the confiscation of bet money amounting to P41,394.00.
Continued Commitment to Law Enforcement
Brigadier General Capoy reaffirmed PRO-8's ongoing dedication to suppressing criminal activities. "PRO-8 continues to intensify its law enforcement operations in line with its mandate to suppress all forms of criminality and maintain peace and order across Eastern Visayas," he stated. The comprehensive results from March 2026 demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing diverse security challenges, from drug trafficking to environmental crimes, ensuring a safer environment for residents.
