THE Iloilo Police Provincial Office (Ippo), under the leadership of Officer-in-Charge Police Colonel Roland Bulalacao, reported the arrest of 23 wanted persons across the province during intensified operations from May 19 to May 25, 2025.
The arrests include seven individuals classified as most wanted persons (MWP).
The campaign also resulted in the swift resolution of a shooting incident in Pototan on May 25, where one suspect was captured within hours.
“These accomplishments highlight the Ippo's dedication to capturing all fugitives and ensuring that they face justice,” Bulalacao said.
He said this move brings them closer to achieving justice for the victims and their families.
Ippo’s Tracker Teams, guided by strategic directives from Bulalacao, conducted week-long manhunt operations targeting law fugitives in various towns in Iloilo.
Their efforts led to the arrest of 23 individuals, including seven listed as most wanted. These operations were carried out with precision, dedication, and the vital cooperation of the local community, which played a significant role in tracking and capturing the suspects.
In a separate case, Pototan Municipal Police Station (MPS) quickly responded to a fatal shooting incident in Barangay Cato-ogan, Pototan, that occurred around 3:30 p.m. on May 25.
The victim, identified as alias Ken, was shot and killed. Investigators identified two suspects: alias Pula, a male resident of Barangay Ledesma Ward, and alias Pagi, a male resident of Barangay Cato-ogan.
Through swift investigation and evidence gathering, supported by witness accounts and strong community coordination, Pototan MPS, led by Officer-in-Charge Police Captain Jersey Besas, arrested alias Pagi during a hot pursuit at around 8 p.m. in Barangay Cato-ogan, the same day the shooting occurred.
Alias Pula remains at large and is the subject of ongoing pursuit.
The motive behind the shooting was traced to a personal misunderstanding between the individuals involved. Bulalacao lauded the Pototan police for their fast and effective response to the incident.
“This successful operation underscores the Ippo's unwavering dedication to apprehending criminals and ensuring the safety of all citizens,” Bulalacao said.
The arrest of alias Pagi marks a significant step toward securing justice for the victim and his family. It also reflects the Ippo’s commitment to maintaining peace and order through proactive policing and strong partnerships with the community.
As the lead provincial police office in Iloilo, the Ippo continues to implement strategies aimed at eliminating threats to public safety by relentlessly pursuing law violators and addressing crimes with urgency.
Under Bulalacao’s command, police personnel remain focused on safeguarding Ilonggos through disciplined service and close collaboration with local residents. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)