Central Visayas Police Seize 37 Unlicensed Firearms and P2 Million in Drugs
In a significant law enforcement achievement, the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO 7) has confiscated 37 unlicensed firearms and illegal drugs valued at nearly P2 million during an intensive weeklong anti-criminality operation conducted from March 15 to 21, 2026. This operation, aligned with the Philippine National Police's focused agenda and enhanced police operations management, demonstrates PRO 7's robust commitment to public safety and crime reduction across the region.
Firearms and Ammunition Confiscated
According to official data released by the Central Visayas police, authorities successfully seized 37 loose firearms, which included one explosive device, alongside 80 rounds of ammunition of various calibers. These confiscations occurred during ongoing operations targeting individuals in possession of unlicensed weapons, highlighting the police's proactive measures to curb illegal arms proliferation and enhance community security.
Arrests of Wanted Persons and Drug Suspects
As part of efforts to apprehend individuals with outstanding warrants, the PRO 7 tracker team achieved notable success by arresting 101 wanted persons. Among these, 10 were classified as most wanted, underscoring the operation's effectiveness in addressing serious criminal threats. In the parallel campaign against illegal drugs, police arrested 202 suspects, comprising two high-value individuals, 12 street-level dealers, and 188 newly identified drug personalities, thereby disrupting local drug networks.
Drug and Gambling Seizures
Authorities seized a substantial quantity of illegal substances, including 264.01 grams of shabu, with a standard drug price exceeding P1.7 million, and 3.10 grams of dried marijuana leaves. Additionally, in the crackdown on illegal gambling, 91 individuals were arrested, and P14,645 in gambling money was confiscated, further demonstrating the operation's comprehensive approach to combating various forms of criminal activity.
Leadership and Public Assurance
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, regional director of the Central Visayas police, commended the successful anti-criminality campaign, stating, "These results show our continued commitment to keeping our communities safe. PRO 7 will sustain its operations against all forms of criminality and calls on the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police." Maranan reassured the public that aggressive law enforcement efforts will persist to ensure Central Visayas remains a peaceful, orderly, and safe environment for all residents.
