Iloilo: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 in Western Visayas reported a significant breakthrough in their anti-drug operations, seizing illegal drugs valued at PHP27.19 million and arresting 96 suspects between April 1 and 15.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PRO-6 conducted 74 anti-drug operations during the first half of the month, which led to the confiscation of four kilograms of suspected shabu and three grams of marijuana. Among those arrested were 29 high-value individuals and 67 street-level offenders. The Iloilo Police Provincial Office made a major haul by confiscating 2,264 grams of suspected shabu, followed by the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6 with 945 grams, and the Iloilo City Police Office with 592 grams of illegal drugs.

Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, the Director of PRO-6, commended the efforts of law enforcement officers, emphasizing the impact the seized drugs could have had on community safety and crime rates. He called for continued vigilance from the public and local partners, encouraging them to report any suspicious activities to help safeguard their communities.

In addition to the drug-related arrests, PRO-6 apprehended 76 wanted individuals during the same period, including 18 who were on the most wanted list. The campaign against loose firearms also resulted in the recovery of 199 firearms and 26 explosives. Of these firearms, 16 were seized through police operations, 154 were voluntarily surrendered, and 29 were deposited for safekeeping.

Brig. Gen. Ligan highlighted the public's increasing cooperation with law enforcement, as evidenced by the number of voluntarily surrendered firearms. He urged firearm owners to ensure their weapons are properly licensed to avoid legal issues.