By Jennifer P. Rendon
The campaign against illegal drugs and the operation targeting wanted persons highlighted Colonel Bayani Razalan’s four-month tenure as chief of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO).
From April 19 to August 19, IPPO units conducted 143 anti-drug operations, resulting in the arrest of 175 drug personalities, including 33 high-value targets.
The intensified campaign led to the recovery of 4,655.665 grams of shabu, valued at P31,658,520.
Additionally, IPPO tracker teams carried out 414 manhunt operations, leading to the arrest of 417 fugitives, 82 of whom were listed as most wanted.
Razalan noted that the IPPO also ramped up its crackdown on other illegal activities, such as illegal fishing, quarrying, gambling, and possession of loose firearms.
In collaboration with the provincial and municipal Bantay Dagat task forces, the IPPO conducted 141 anti-illegal fishing operations, apprehending 360 illegal fishers.
These operations resulted in the impounding of 185 boats and the seizure of fish valued at P546,468.
“This success underscores the power of community partnership in tackling illegal activities,” Razalan said.
In enforcing the provincial ordinance against illegal quarrying, the IPPO carried out 128 operations, leading to the arrest of 139 violators and the impounding of 137 trucks.
Furthermore, IPPO conducted 51 anti-illegal gambling operations, resulting in the arrest of 199 individuals and the confiscation of P76,041 in bet money.
Regarding the campaign against loose firearms, IPPO recovered 263 firearms, of which 200 were voluntarily surrendered, 19 were deposited for safekeeping due to expired licenses, and 44 were confiscated during police operations.
Forty-four individuals were also arrested for illegal possession of firearms.
Razalan commended IPPO personnel for their performance and expressed gratitude to the Ilonggo community for their support.
“We have achieved these milestones because of your 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,” he said.
Razalan shared that he, along with the rest of the Ilonggo community, envisions a safer, more secure, drug-free, and progressive Iloilo province.
