Authorities arrested a regional most wanted person in Biliran who had been facing multiple charges of rape and sexual abuse involving a minor, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group said.
The CIDG said operatives of its Biliran Provincial Field Unit, together with local police units, arrested the 41-year-old accused identified only as “Ben” during a manhunt operation in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Naval, Biliran at around 7:45 p.m. on May 19.
The suspect, a resident of Barangay Calumpang in Naval, was listed as the No. 7 regional-level most wanted person of Police Regional Office 8.
Authorities served a warrant of arrest issued by a court in Naval, Biliran on March 16, 2023 for four counts of rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act No. 8353 or the Anti-Rape Law of 1997.
He is also facing seven counts of lascivious conduct under Section 5(B), Article III of Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
The court recommended no bail for the rape charges and set bail at P200,000 for each count of sexual abuse under RA 7610.
A report submitted to CIDG Director PMGen. Robert AA Morico II said the case stemmed from the alleged rape and sexual abuse of a 14-year-old girl in March 2020 at the suspect’s residence in Naval.
The CIDG credited the arrest to the continuing manhunt efforts of CIDG Regional Field Unit 8, led by PCOL Felix G. Gervacio Jr., and the CIDG Biliran Provincial Field Unit, led by PCPT Arniel A. Buraga.
The CIDG said the operation reflects its commitment to pursue wanted persons, particularly those facing charges involving violence and abuse against women and children.
It also assured the public that it would continue tracking fugitives and most wanted persons nationwide to help victims, especially minors, seek justice through the legal process.