• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
In an intensified campaign against illegal drugs, the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) conducted 17 operations leading to the recovery of more than P400,000 worth of suspected shabu for the period of August 25 to 31.
The operations were conducted across the province, where police seized a total of 53.37 grams of suspected shabu in sealed transparent plastic sachets, with a standard drug value of P403,716.
At least 24 drug personalities were apprehended during the operations in the province. They are now under the custody of the authority and will face charges in accordance with RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Moreover, in their efforts to bring fugitives to justice, 5 most wanted persons in the province were arrested, along with the 34 other wanted individuals. All were served with a warrant of arrest and were informed of their rights upon apprehension.
Another 6 individuals were arrested in violation of RA 10591, or the illegal possession of firearms. This reflects the efforts of the provincial police against loose firearms. Meanwhile, with its ‘Armas Baylo Bugas’ initiative, where rice was given to those who surrendered their possessed firearms, 5 illegal firearms of various calibers were deposited.
In the campaign against illegal gambling, 19 individuals were caught in the act of committing unauthorized betting, during the 8 operations conducted by the police.
About P58,000 worth of illegal fishing gear was confiscated during the NOCPPO’s operations against illegal fishing, as 8 persons were apprehended and will face charges in accordance with Republic Act 10654, or the illegal fishing law.*
