In a significant blow to criminal elements in Negros Island, operatives from the Police Regional Office (PRO-NIR) have successfully apprehended the region's 10th most wanted person in a targeted manhunt operation.
Operation Culminates in Victorias City Arrest
The arrest was executed in Barangay 4, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, on November 21, 2025. The suspect, identified by the alias "Winkle," is a 32-year-old resident of Zone 6, Bangga Daan, Barangay 1 in the same city.
Warrant Served After Prior Evasion
According to Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, the arrest was carried out by the Victorias City Police Station. The operation was conducted by virtue of a valid arrest warrant for violation of Article II, Section 5, Paragraph 1 of Republic Act (RA) 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Malong revealed that "Winkle" had previously been the target of a buy-bust operation but managed to evade capture during its implementation. Following his escape, law enforcement agents promptly filed the necessary legal charges, which led to the court issuing the warrant that ultimately sealed his fate.
A Clear Message Against Crime and Drugs
This successful operation is hailed as another decisive step in PRO-NIR's intensified campaign to rid the region of criminality and illegal drugs. "With coordinated action, swift response, and unwavering determination, PRO-NIR continues to prove that offenders involved in criminal activities and the drug trade will be relentlessly pursued and brought before the law," Malong stated.
She further emphasized that PRO-NIR remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the communities of the Negros Island Region. "Each successful operation strengthens its commitment to dismantle criminal networks, suppress illegal drug activities, and ensure that no lawbreaker can escape justice," she added, sending a clear message that criminality has no place in the region.
