32 nabbed, 104 guns seized in operations

CEBU, Philippines — The Police Regional Office-7 has reported their three-day accomplishments in their different anti-criminality operations conducted from April 11 to 13, 2025.

As part of its Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation, it launched a regionwide crackdown on loose firearms within the period resulting in the arrest of 32 individuals and the recovery of 104 firearms through confiscation, surrender, and voluntary turnover.

PRO-7 said that in addition to the firearms, four explosives were also seized during the operations.

“Our intensified campaign against loose firearms directly supports the overall stability of Central Visayas. We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders and local government units to encourage the voluntary surrender of unlicensed firearms and enforce the law without fear or favor,” PRO-7 regional director Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan said.

PRO-7 encouraged citizens to report any information related to the presence or possession of loose firearms to the nearest police station or through PRO-7’s communication platforms.

A total of 79 wanted individuals were apprehended regionwide on the same period. Among those arrested were 16 individuals listed as Most Wanted Persons, sought for serious offenses including murder, rape, drug trafficking, and acts of lasciviousness.

The remaining 63 apprehended individuals were categorized as Other Wanted Persons, each facing various criminal charges.

PRO-7 said the arrests were executed through coordinated manhunt operations across the region.Maranan said they are enhancing their security measures to ensure criminal elements do not jeopardize the safety and security of the communities. — (FREEMAN)