By Jennifer P. Rendon
More than PHP 4 million worth of illegal drugs were seized in a series of monthlong police anti-narcotics operations in Iloilo City.
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) reported that 630 grams of shabu, with a standard drug price of PHP 4,284,300, were confiscated in September.
The seized illegal drugs were the result of 24 operations that led to the arrest of 27 suspects, eight of whom are high-value targets.
Fifty-one cases were filed in court against the suspects.
However, September’s illegal drug haul was significantly lower compared to August’s operations.
In the previous month, the IPPO seized 1.047 kilograms of shabu valued at PHP 7,124,381. The police conducted 33 anti-drug operations and arrested 41 drug personalities during that period.
Colonel Bayani Razalan, Iloilo police chief, said preparations for the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC) for the 2025 midterm elections may have slightly affected the number of drug-related operations carried out by IPPO units.
However, he assured that the fight against criminality, especially illegal drugs, remains a priority.
In addition to anti-drug efforts, the IPPO conducted 99 operations against wanted persons, leading to the arrest of 24 most wanted individuals and 74 other suspects.
“These efforts significantly contribute to the safety and security of the community,” Razalan said.
To curb gun-related incidents, the IPPO executed 29 operations, resulting in the arrest of 20 individuals and the seizure of 29 loose firearms.
Additionally, 40 unlicensed firearms were voluntarily surrendered, while 13 firearms with expired registrations were secured for safekeeping.
The IPPO also conducted 13 operations targeting illegal gambling, leading to the arrest of 57 individuals and the filing of 14 cases.
To safeguard Iloilo’s marine environment, the IPPO launched 15 operations against illegal fishing, resulting in the arrest of 48 individuals and the impounding of 37 motorboats.
The confiscated fish were valued at approximately PHP 40,460.
Efforts against illegal quarrying included 20 operations, leading to the arrest of 22 drivers and the impounding of 22 delivery trucks involved in these illicit activities.
Razalan highlighted the significant role of community cooperation in the IPPO’s accomplishments.
“The achievements of the IPPO in September 2024 reflect the dedication and hard work of our personnel. However, these successes would not be possible without the community’s support,” he said.
He noted that maintaining peace and order is a collective responsibility that requires ongoing vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement and the public.
Razalan also urged the public to continue assisting police initiatives by reporting crimes and suspicious activities.
