By Jennifer P. Rendon
Three months since Colonel Bayani Razalan took over the top post at the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), more than P25 million worth of illegal drugs have been confiscated.
Razalan, still heading the IPPO in an officer-in-charge capacity, regarded the achievements of IPPO units as “remarkable milestones.”
From April 19 to July 19, 2024, Razalan said IPPO intensified its efforts in combating illegal drugs, arresting wanted persons, addressing illegal fishing, illegal quarrying, and illegal gambling, and seizing loose firearms.
IPPO conducted 113 anti-illegal drug operations during this period.
These efforts resulted in the arrest of 145 drug peddlers, including 26 high-value individuals, and the confiscation of 3,802.085 grams of shabu valued at P25,854,176.
Despite these achievements, the number of operations and the volume of seized drugs indicate that the illegal drug problem remains significant.
Meanwhile, tracker teams carried out 315 manhunt operations and arrested 317 fugitives, including 62 most-wanted persons.
Through joint efforts with the provincial and municipal Bantay Dagat task forces, IPPO conducted 93 anti-illegal fishing operations, leading to the apprehension of 240 fishermen.
Eleven fishing boats were also impounded, and P405,000 worth of fish was confiscated.
“This collaborative approach is a testament to the power of community involvement in our fight against illegal activities,” Razalan said.
The Ilonggo cops also targeted illegal quarrying activities, enforcing 98 operations on provincial ordinances against illegal quarrying. They apprehended 103 violators and impounded their delivery trucks.
Additionally, IPPO conducted 34 anti-illegal gambling operations, resulting in the arrest of 70 individuals and the confiscation of P41,014 in bet money.
Further, IPPO’s sustained crackdown on loose firearms yielded a total of 174 loose firearms. Of these, 125 were surrendered, 17 were deposited, 32 were confiscated during police operations, and 33 individuals were arrested.
“We have achieved these milestones because of everyone’s unwavering trust and cooperation. I appeal to everyone to continue supporting us, as we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring your safety and well-being. Together, we shall realize our vision of a safer, more secure, drug-free, and progressive Iloilo Province,” Razalan said.
