Western Visayas' Eighth Most Wanted Person Arrested in Iloilo for Multiple Rape Charges
In a significant law enforcement breakthrough, a 25-year-old man identified as Western Visayas' eighth most wanted person has been apprehended in Calinog, Iloilo. The suspect, known by the alias John, faces six serious counts of rape by carnal knowledge, marking a critical step in regional efforts to combat heinous crimes.
Joint Police Operation Leads to Apprehension
The arrest occurred at precisely 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, in Barangay Alibunan, Calinog. This successful operation was the result of coordinated efforts between the Calinog Municipal Police Station and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office-Provincial Intelligence Unit. Authorities executed a warrant of arrest issued on November 11, 2024, by the Regional Trial Court Branch 76 in Janiuay, Iloilo, with no bail recommended, underscoring the severity of the charges.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas, praised the operating units for their diligence. He emphasized that this accomplishment highlights the intensified campaign against wanted individuals, particularly those involved in grave offenses. Ligan stated, "This reflects our police force's commitment to ensuring justice is served and that communities in Western Visayas remain safe for everyone."
Validation and Coordination Efforts
The arrest followed meticulous validation and coordination by the Calinog MPS and the Provincial Intelligence Unit, demonstrating effective inter-agency collaboration. The suspect is currently under the custody of the Calinog MPS for proper documentation and disposition before being turned over to the issuing court. This procedure ensures all legal protocols are adhered to prior to further judicial proceedings.
Records indicate that the warrant against the accused was issued over a year before his arrest, pointing to prolonged efforts to locate him. Authorities have chosen not to disclose additional details of the charges to protect the privacy of the complainants, adhering to ethical standards in sensitive cases.
Ongoing Campaign Against Fugitives
This arrest is part of the broader intensified drive by the Police Regional Office 6 to track down individuals facing criminal charges, especially those accused of serious offenses. The PRO 6 has reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring these individuals appear before the court, thereby upholding the rule of law and enhancing public safety.
The apprehension of the eighth most wanted person in Western Visayas represents one of the latest achievements in Iloilo province's ongoing campaign against fugitives. It serves as a testament to the relentless efforts of law enforcement units in the region to bring perpetrators to justice and maintain community security.
As of now, John remains detained at the Calinog MPS, awaiting further court proceedings that will determine the next steps in this high-profile case.
