Manila: The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced on Monday the seizure of illegal drugs valued at PHP146 million between January 1 and April 4 this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, the NCRPO's anti-narcotics teams conducted 2,386 operations, leading to the arrest of 3,683 suspects. The confiscated substances included 21,273.25 grams of shabu worth PHP145.87 million, 7,977.69 grams of marijuana valued at PHP957,322, 17.30 grams of cocaine worth PHP91,690, and 112.50 grams of kush valued at PHP168,750.

NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin emphasized the commitment of the police force to dismantling drug networks and safeguarding communities from the impact of illegal drugs. He stated, "Team NCRPO will elevate our relentless, intel-driven, and procedure-based campaign against illegal drugs anchored on the ultimate goal of eliminating the illegal drug menace that destroys the lives of affected families."

Additionally, Aberin highlighted a 23.63 percent reduction in the crime rate in Metro Manila during the same period, with incidents dropping from 1,710 to 1,305 in 2024. Index crimes, which include offenses against persons such as murder, homicide, physical injury, and rape, as well as crimes against property like robbery, theft, and vehicle theft, saw significant declines.

The NCRPO also reported the arrest of 1,764 most wanted persons and 2,633 other wanted individuals. Aberin remarked, "These focused efforts are now yielding tangible results in the fight against crime."

The NCRPO comprises the Manila Police District, Quezon City Police District, Northern Police District, Southern Police District, and Eastern Police District.