The Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested Northern Samar’s No. 1 most wanted person for statutory rape during an operation in Barangay Washington, Catarman.
The suspect, an 18-year-old male from Lapinig, Northern Samar, was apprehended by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 38 of the 8th Judicial Region in Gamay, Northern Samar. The warrant carried no bail recommendation.
The operation was jointly carried out by personnel of the Philippine National Police Provincial Mobile Force Company in Northern Samar, the Catarman Municipal Police Station, and the 803rd Maneuver Company of the Philippine Army.
The accused faces charges for statutory rape under Republic Act No. 8353, as amended by Republic Act No. 11648.
Following his arrest, the suspect was placed under the custody of the Catarman Municipal Police Station for documentation and turnover to the issuing court.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the arrest underscores the agency’s sustained drive against wanted persons and serious offenders.
He reiterated that law enforcement operations will continue until all fugitives are accounted for and brought before the courts, stressing that the police force remains committed to ensuring justice for victims and communities.
The PNP said the operation aligns with its focused transformation agenda, particularly efforts to enhance police operations and intensify manhunt operations nationwide.
Authorities also reaffirmed continued coordination with partner units to strengthen public safety and ensure accountability of wanted individuals across the country, in line with the government’s broader security and law enforcement campaign.