Police in Danao City have taken into custody an octogenarian for allegedly operating an unauthorized numbers game, commonly known as "swertres." The arrest highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts against illegal gambling activities in local communities.
Operation Leads to Arrest in Barangay Tuburan Sur
The arrest occurred in Barangay Tuburan Sur, Danao City on the afternoon of Saturday, January 17, 2026. Personnel from the Danao City Police Station carried out the operation at approximately 4:30 p.m. after acting on multiple community reports concerning rampant illegal gambling in the area.
Authorities identified the suspect as Rogelio Tito Sabas, an 80-year-old resident of Purok 1 who also goes by the alias "Hely." Investigators revealed they had been monitoring Sabas's activities for a significant period prior to the operation.
Evidence Seized and Suspect's Admission
During the arrest, police officers caught Sabas in the act of soliciting bets without any government-issued permit. A search of his possessions yielded concrete evidence of the illegal operation.
The confiscated items included:
- Cash amounting to 170 Philippine pesos.
- Multiple betting stubs marked with various number combinations.
- Carbon paper and a pen used for recording transactions.
According to police investigators, Sabas admitted to a long-term involvement in the illegal numbers game. He reportedly told authorities that the commissions he earned from the activity were his means of providing financial support for his family.
Legal Consequences and Charges Filed
Following his arrest, Rogelio Tito Sabas now confronts formal charges for violating Republic Act 9287. This law imposes penalties on individuals involved in illegal numbers games, including "swertres" and other similar gambling schemes.
The case demonstrates the police's commitment to acting on citizen reports and enforcing anti-gambling statutes, regardless of the suspect's age. It also brings to light the complex socio-economic factors that sometimes drive individuals to participate in such unlawful ventures.
