Negros Oriental: Police in Negros Oriental confiscated PHP10.9 million worth of shabu in a weeklong anti-crime blitz ahead of the midterm elections, officials reported Monday. The operations, spanning from April 28 to May 4, were part of a larger effort to ensure a safe and secure election period.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO) arrested 23 drug suspects and confiscated 1,607 grams of methamphetamine. The operations included 19 drug raids and broader crime suppression efforts, which also resulted in the arrest of 42 gambling suspects across 21 operations. Furthermore, authorities captured four most-wanted criminals and 46 other fugitives.
In addition to targeting drug and gambling offenses, police carried out 30 operations against loose firearms, resulting in six arrests. A total of 957 ordinance violations were recorded throughout the province. As part of “Oplan Katok” (Knock), police secured 15 guns from owners with expired licenses.
Lt. Stephen Polinar, NOPPO spokesperson, stated that the Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations would continue through the May 12 elections, aiming to maintain public safety and order during the electoral process.
