The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) arrested a rape suspect during a joint warrant operation conducted in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Authorities identified the suspect as an 18-year-old resident of Mabuhay town who was apprehended inside the Provincial Highway Patrol Team (PHPT) office in Zamboanga Sibugay at around 7:10 pm.
The operation was carried out by personnel of PHPT Zamboanga Sibugay in coordination with the Olutanga Municipal Police Station.
Police said the arrest stemmed from a warrant issued by Judge Joel Vercide of the Regional Trial Court Branch 31 in Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay dated March 25, 2024.
The suspect is facing charges for rape through sexual abuse under Republic Act No. 8353, or the Anti-Rape Law of 1997, under Criminal Case No. IM-24-3073. Recommended bail was set at P120,000.
Following his arrest, the accused was placed under the custody of the Ipil Municipal Police Station pending proper court proceedings and the return of the warrant to the issuing court.
PNP-HPG Director Police Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan said the operation reflects the group’s continued support for law enforcement efforts against wanted persons.
“The PNP-HPG remains committed to supporting law enforcement efforts in locating and arresting wanted persons through lawful and intelligence-driven operations in coordination with partner agencies,” Batangan said.
The HPG also urged the public to continue cooperating with authorities by providing information that could help in the arrest of fugitives and the maintenance of peace and order.