A top-level wanted suspect facing multiple sex-related charges was arrested in a police operation in Barangay Guisao, Zamboanga City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The suspect, identified as the No. 1 Most Wanted Person at the provincial level of Police Regional Office 9, was apprehended at around 10 a.m. on April 28 through a joint operation involving Police Station 4 of the Zamboanga City Police Office, the Regional Intelligence Unit 9, and the 1st Special Operations Unit of the PNP Maritime Group.
Authorities said the arrest was based on multiple warrants, including four counts of rape with no bail recommended, three counts of sexual assault with bail set at P600,000 each, and acts of lasciviousness with bail set at P108,000.
The suspect is now under the custody of Police Station 4 for documentation and further legal proceedings.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the operation reflects the force’s sustained drive to apprehend individuals facing serious criminal charges, particularly those involving violence against women and children.
“This arrest reflects our relentless effort to track down individuals facing serious criminal charges. Hindi kami uurong sa pagtugis sa mga akusadong sangkot sa karumal-dumal na krimen laban sa kababaihan at kabataan,” Nartatez said.
He added that the operation forms part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda, which prioritizes intensified law enforcement and the prompt arrest of wanted persons to ensure they are brought before the courts.
“We will sustain this momentum and ensure that justice is served,” he said.
The PNP said the arrest underscores its intensified campaign against fugitives and its commitment to protecting communities from individuals accused of heinous crimes.