Aklan Police Apprehend Second Most Wanted Rape Suspect in Coordinated Operation
In a significant law enforcement achievement, personnel from the Aklan Police Provincial Office (Akppo) have successfully arrested the province's second most wanted person for rape. The operation took place at approximately 6:50 p.m. on February 27, 2026, in Sector 2 of Barangay Mabilo, located in the municipality of New Washington, Aklan.
Details of the Arrest and Suspect Identification
The suspect, identified only by the alias Ren, is a 39-year-old laborer originally from Kalibo, Aklan. His apprehension was executed by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Branch 3 of the Regional Trial Court on February 24, 2026. Notably, the court recommended no bail for the accused, underscoring the severity of the charges.
Following the arrest, the suspect was immediately placed under police custody. He is currently being held at the New Washington Municipal Police Station, where authorities are completing necessary documentation procedures prior to his formal turnover to the court for legal proceedings.
High-Level Commendation and Law Enforcement Coordination
Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), publicly commended the operating units involved in this successful arrest. In a statement, General Ligan emphasized the broader implications of this operation for community safety and justice.
"This successful arrest demonstrates our unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of our communities," Ligan stated. He further added, "We commend our operating units for their dedication, coordination, and relentless efforts in bringing the accused to justice. Rest assured, we will continue to pursue individuals who evade the law and ensure that justice is served for their victims."
Charges and Collaborative Effort
The accused faces serious charges for rape under the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act 8353. This legal framework highlights the gravity of the offense and the stringent penalties associated with such crimes in the Philippines.
The arrest was a result of a highly coordinated effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies. Personnel from the New Washington Municipal Police Station led the operation, with crucial assistance provided by the Aklan Maritime Police Station (MARPSA), the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU), and the Akppo Trackers Team. This collaborative approach underscores the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation in tracking and apprehending high-priority suspects.
The successful capture of alias Ren marks a pivotal moment in Aklan's ongoing efforts to combat serious crimes and deliver justice for victims. It reinforces the police force's resolve to pursue fugitives relentlessly, ensuring that those who commit grave offenses are held accountable under the law.
