Authorities in Cebu Province have intensified their crackdown on illegal number games, resulting in the arrest of nine individuals working as ushers for the illicit swertres operation. The series of police operations, which targeted different locations across the province, also led to the discovery of illegal drugs in the possession of one suspect.
Coordinated Police Operations Across Municipalities
The arrests were not isolated incidents but part of a coordinated effort by various police units. In Toledo City, siblings Fretzie Abunalo, 30, and Alma Abunalo, 37, along with Evangeline Baromeda, 49, were apprehended. Law enforcement officers confiscated gambling paraphernalia, bet money, and other related items from their position.
Meanwhile, in Medellin town, police captured two more ushers identified as Aldam Dela Cruz, 53, and Edelberto Orbiso, 58. The police force in the municipality of Barili successfully arrested Marvin Lacostales, 22, a resident of Barangay Balao.
Additional Arrests and Drug Seizure
The operation's net widened to include other towns. Roel Romo, 35, from Barangay San Jose in Catmon town, and Mark Ursal, 20, from Barangay Puente in Carmen town, were also taken into custody for their alleged roles as ushers in the illegal numbers game.
In a significant development during the crackdown, an usher was found in possession of suspected illegal drugs. Tomas Lavador, 37, from Barangay Ibabao in Sogod town, was arrested and authorities recovered two packets of suspected shabu from him, adding a drug-related charge to his case.
Legal Consequences and Charges Filed
All nine individuals arrested in these operations now face serious legal repercussions. The police have formally filed charges against them for violation of Republic Act 9287, the law which increases penalties for illegal gambling. This statute is a key tool for authorities in their campaign against unauthorized gambling activities like swertres.
The successful operations underscore the Philippine National Police's ongoing commitment to curbing illegal gambling, which is often linked to other criminal activities. The arrest of an usher with drugs highlights the interconnected nature of these community issues. Authorities have warned the public that participation in such illegal games carries severe penalties.
