By Xander Ledesma
A man who had been evading authorities for 14 years was arrested by the Mabolo Police Station in Cebu City on November 5, 2024. The 48-year-old fugitive, whose name is withheld, is from Tanjay, Negros Oriental, and had been the target of a national manhunt after being implicated in a 2009 murder case.
The arrest followed an investigation that uncovered the suspect’s outstanding warrant for murder. Authorities had been unable to capture him due to his use of multiple aliases and frequent relocation. His apprehension came after the National Police Clearance (NPC) System flagged him during an inquiry for an unrelated case.
Launched in 2015, the NPC system tracks individuals’ criminal histories and personal details, helping law enforcement identify suspects who have been in hiding. In this case, the NPC played a key role in identifying the fugitive, leading to a covert operation by the Mabolo Police Station under Police Major Romeo D. Caacoy Jr. The suspect was arrested around 2:00 PM on November 5 in a residential area of Mabolo, Cebu City.
Investigators revealed that the fugitive had used various strategies to remain undetected, including changing his identity and appearance and relying on associates to help him evade capture. Despite these efforts, his arrest marked a significant success for local law enforcement.
The operation highlights the growing importance of technology in modern policing, with the NPC system providing a vital tool in tracking fugitives across the country. It also underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in apprehending individuals who deliberately conceal themselves for long periods.
Caacoy’s leadership in the operation reflects the crucial role of regional police forces in tackling cross-provincial crime. While the fugitive’s arrest is a notable achievement, it also highlights the persistent difficulties law enforcement faces in apprehending fugitives involved in serious crimes.