In a significant law enforcement push, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 has intensified its campaigns against wanted persons with pending warrants of arrest, leading to the capture of 500 individuals during 505 manhunt operations across the entire region in March 2026.
Breakdown of Arrests and Priority Targets
Among those apprehended, 108 were classified as Most Wanted Persons, serving as priority targets for police units due to the severity of their cases. These include charges such as Murder, Rape, Robbery with Homicide, and major illegal drug offenses, highlighting the focus on high-impact crimes that threaten public safety.
Other Wanted Persons and Lesser Charges
Additionally, 392 Other Wanted Persons were arrested, facing cases like physical injuries, theft, estafa, and violations of special laws. This broader sweep demonstrates the comprehensive approach taken by authorities to address a range of criminal activities, from violent felonies to property crimes and fraud.
Commitment to Community Safety
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of police in Central Visayas, emphasized that the number of arrests reflects their unwavering dedication to cleansing communities of criminals. He stated, "These wanted individuals have been loitering around our communities, evading justice and posing potential threats to the safety of the public. Their arrest is crucial in preventing further crimes and ensuring that the rule of law prevails in our region."
Maranan further added that the ongoing manhunt operations serve as evidence of their strong commitment to pursuing wanted persons and enforcing court orders, reinforcing the message that law enforcement remains vigilant and proactive in maintaining order.
