6 surrender in Calabarzon anti-crime campaign

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — Six alleged members of a criminal group surrendered, while another was arrested following a series of police operations in Calabarzon on Friday.

Four of the surrenderees ­–­ identified in their aliases as Busa, Evoy, Jaypee and Ponga – are said to be members of the Javier Criminal Group.

Lt. Col. Mark Jason Gatdula, chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Cavite, said the suspects were involved in contract killings and illegal drug trade.

Busa’s brother, identified only as alias Ed, was arrested in his house in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

The suspect yielded a .45-caliber pistol and ammunition.

Gatdula said a manhunt was launched for the leader of the Javier Criminal Group, identified only as Jong, who was tagged in a series of killings in the province.

Two others, identified as alias De Villa and alias Lozande, surrendered to members of the CIDG-Batangas.

The suspects are reportedly members of the Platon Criminal Group.

Col. Geovanny Sibalo, chief of the CIDG-Calabarzon, said the series of anti-crime operations were part of an intensified campaign under Oplan Pagtugis to ensure peace and order, especially during the May 12 elections.