By Eva Visperas
DAGUPAN CITY– The Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) has made significant strides in ensuring public safety during the December 2024 holiday season through intensified operations targeting crime in the Ilocos region.
In its anti-drug efforts, PRO1 conducted 106 operations, leading to the arrest of 116 individuals and the seizure of 3500 marijuana plants, 2000 seedlings, over four kilograms of dried marijuana, and nearly two kilograms of shabu. The total value of these drugs amounted to P5.88 million.
PRO1 also successfully apprehended 25 of the region’s most wanted individuals and 273 other suspects. In a major crackdown on illegal gambling, 62 operations led to the arrest of 219 offenders and the confiscation of over P29,000 in bet money and gambling equipment.
As part of its “LOI Kontra Boga” campaign against loose firearms, 12 operations resulted in 20 arrests and the recovery of 17 firearms.
In a notable counterinsurgency effort, two members of Communist Terrorist Groups and 23 members of the Cordillera Peoples’ Army surrendered.
Lastly, PRO1’s efforts to ensure a safe New Year’s celebration led to the confiscation of 2,984 prohibited firecrackers, valued at nearly P175,000.
Police Brig. Gen. Lou Evangelista, PRO1 director, said, “These achievements are just the beginning. We remain committed to ensuring peace and order in the Ilocos region as we move into the new year, with continued focus on upholding the rule of law.”