In a significant breakthrough for local law enforcement, Iloilo authorities have successfully apprehended two of the province's most wanted individuals in carefully coordinated operations this week.
Daring Daytime Arrest in Jaro District
The first operation unfolded in Barangay Cuartero, Jaro district, where police captured 28-year-old Jerson Lozada, who ranked as the number one most wanted person in Jaro. Lozada faced serious charges for robbery under Criminal Case No. 24-25971, with the Regional Trial Court Branch 33 having issued a warrant for his arrest with no bail recommended.
The arrest came following intensive intelligence gathering by the Jaro Police Station's intelligence section, which pinpointed Lozada's exact location, allowing operatives to move in swiftly and take him into custody without incident.
Second High-Profile Capture in Oton
Meanwhile, in a separate operation in Barangay Cabanbanan, Oton, police apprehended 37-year-old Ruel Celiz, who held the distinction of being the second most wanted person in the entire Iloilo Province. Celiz faced charges for violating Section 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The Oton Municipal Police Station executed the arrest based on a warrant issued by the RTC Branch 68 in Dumangas, with bail set at P120,000. The successful operation demonstrated the effectiveness of inter-district police coordination.
Police Commitment to Community Safety
Police officials have emphasized that these arrests represent their ongoing commitment to removing dangerous individuals from Iloilo communities. "These operations show our determination to pursue those who threaten public safety, regardless of where they attempt to hide," stated a police spokesperson.
Both suspects are now detained at their respective arresting police stations, awaiting further legal proceedings. The successful captures have been hailed as a major victory for the Philippine National Police's campaign against wanted criminals in the Western Visayas region.
