In a significant law enforcement breakthrough, operatives from the Mambusao Municipal Police Station in Capiz, working in close coordination with the Pototan Municipal Police Station in Iloilo, successfully arrested the province's ninth most wanted person on the afternoon of April 18, 2026. The operation, which took place in Barangay Dongsol, Pototan, Iloilo at precisely 5:41 p.m., targeted an individual accused of lascivious conduct under stringent child protection laws.
Coordinated Police Action Leads to Apprehension
The arrest was executed through a meticulously planned joint effort between the tracker team of Mambusao MPS and their counterparts in Pototan MPS. This collaboration underscores the proactive approach of regional police forces in pursuing wanted individuals across jurisdictional boundaries. The suspect, identified only by the alias "Klyde," is a 22-year-old hatchery worker at a local poultry farm. Although currently residing in Pototan, Iloilo, Klyde is originally a native of Mambusao, Capiz, adding a layer of complexity to the cross-province operation.
Legal Basis and Charges
Authorities confirmed that the arrest was made by virtue of a warrant issued by the Family Court, Sixth Judicial Region, Branch 5, in Iloilo City, dated August 15, 2021. The warrant set a bail bond of P200,000, reflecting the seriousness of the charges. The case stems from an alleged violation of Republic Act 7610, known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, which has been further strengthened by amendments under Republic Act 11648. These laws are designed to enhance the protection of minors against abuse and exploitation, making this arrest a critical step in enforcing child welfare regulations.
Leadership Commends Operation
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), publicly commended the operating units for their successful arrest. In a statement, he emphasized, "This accomplishment reflects our continuous effort to uphold justice and safeguard our communities. We will remain relentless in our operations against wanted persons, for a safer and more secure Western Visayas." His words highlight the regional commitment to maintaining public safety and the rule of law through targeted police actions.
Post-Arrest Procedures and Future Implications
Following the apprehension, the arrested individual is currently under the custody of the Mambusao MPS, where authorities are preparing for the proper disposition of his case, including his presentation before the court. The PRO 6 has reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations against wanted persons across the region, particularly those listed among the most wanted individuals. With Klyde's arrest, police expect to bolster their campaign against crimes involving minors, ensuring that justice is served promptly and efficiently. The PRO 6 assured that similar operations will continue as part of their intensified manhunt efforts, aligning with their mandate to protect communities and uphold legal standards in Western Visayas.
