551 Arrested in Eastern Visayas Anti-Crime Week
551 Arrested in Eastern Visayas Anti-Crime Drive

A week-long intensified anti-criminality operation in Eastern Visayas led to the arrest of 551 individuals, the Police Regional Office 8 reported. The Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations (Sacleo), conducted from April 19 to 25, 2026, also resulted in the seizure of approximately 1,255.51 grams of shabu and marijuana valued at P8,531,589.24, along with six unlicensed firearms.

Police Commitment to Public Safety

PRO 8 Director Brigadier General Jason Capoy emphasized the sustained pressure against criminality. “This is the result of sustained pressure against all forms of criminality. Our operations will not stop, and we will keep pushing forward to ensure safer communities for everyone,” he said. Capoy assured the public that all actions adhered strictly to Philippine National Police procedures and respected the rights of individuals involved.

Details of Operations

A total of 361 law enforcement operations were carried out during the period. These led to the arrest of 10 Most Wanted Persons and 121 additional wanted individuals, including 36 drug suspects. Another 370 individuals were arrested for violations of special laws such as Republic Act 10654 (Illegal Fishing), Republic Act 9175 (Illegal Logging/Chainsaw Act), and RA 9287/PD 1602 (Illegal Gambling).

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Anti-Insurgency Efforts

Parallel efforts against insurgency and terrorism resulted in the voluntary surrender of seven individuals. Law enforcement units also served one search warrant. The arrested individuals remain in custody as charges are prepared for court filing.

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