Drive vs gambling: 111 nabbed in Quezon City

MANILA, Philippines — More than 100 people have been arrested in Quezon City as the police intensified the campaign against illegal gambling, Mayor Joy Belmonte said yesterday.

Belmonte said 104 people were apprehended while seven minors were rescued during operations conducted by the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) from Jan. 27 to Feb. 5. 

“We commend the QCPD headed by Brig. Gen. Ronnie Montejo for heeding our call to boost the crackdown on illegal gambling,” she said. 

“It is just the beginning of our fight against illegal gambling. I am confident that the city police will not stop until this is finally eradicated,” she added.

The QCPD conducted 62 anti-gambling operations that resulted in the filing of 33 cases against the suspects.

Belmonte said police raided operations of video karera, tupada or illegal cockfighting, loteng, jueteng and illegal card games.

The QCPD said cases of violation of Presidential Decree 1602 were filed against the suspects. The minors were turned over to the city’s Social Services Development Department.

Last month, Belmonte ordered the police to launch an all-our war against all forms of gambling.

 She called on officials of 142 barangays in the city to strictly implement the local ordinance on illegal gambling.