Farmer Listed as Antique's Seventh Most Wanted Person Apprehended in Rape Case
In a significant law enforcement operation, a 34-year-old farmer identified as the seventh most wanted person in Antique province was arrested on charges of rape. The arrest occurred at approximately 10 a.m. on March 26, 2026, in Sitio Balabago, Barangay Carawisan II, within the municipality of San Remigio, Antique.
Coordinated Operation Leads to Successful Apprehension
The operation was conducted through the joint efforts of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 6 (CIDG 6) and the San Remigio Municipal Police Station. The suspect, known by the alias Neria, was taken into custody based on an active warrant for rape issued under Article 266-A (1) in relation to Article 266-B of the Revised Penal Code.
The warrant was formally issued by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 10, located in San Jose, Antique, on March 13, 2026. Notably, the court did not recommend bail for the suspect, underscoring the severity of the charges.
Police Leadership Commends Arrest as Part of Broader Campaign
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of Police Regional Office 6 (PRO 6), publicly praised the operating units for their successful execution of the arrest. In his statement, Ligan emphasized that this accomplishment reflects the intensified campaign against wanted persons, particularly those accused of heinous crimes such as rape.
"We assure the public that PRO 6 will relentlessly pursue fugitives and ensure that justice is served," Ligan declared. He further encouraged communities across Western Visayas to continue supporting police efforts by providing timely and accurate information about the whereabouts of wanted individuals.
Arrest Highlights Strengthened Inter-Agency Coordination
Authorities confirmed that the suspect was officially listed as the number seven most wanted person under the Antique Police Provincial Office (ANT PPO) 7. This designation prompted the coordinated operation between the CIDG Antique Provincial Field Unit and the San Remigio Municipal Police Station.
Police officials stated that the arrest operation is part of the ongoing, region-wide efforts by PRO 6 to track down and apprehend individuals with outstanding warrants, especially those facing serious criminal charges. The successful apprehension demonstrates the enhanced coordination between specialized investigative units and local police stations in the execution of warrants and the pursuit of fugitives.
Call for Continued Public Cooperation in Law Enforcement
PRO 6 reiterated its appeal for sustained public cooperation in reporting information related to wanted persons. This collaboration is deemed essential to support law enforcement objectives in maintaining peace and order throughout the Western Visayas region. The arrest serves as a tangible example of how effective partnerships between authorities and the community can lead to significant outcomes in the justice system.
