By MA. THERESA LADIAO

In a sustained crackdown on fugitives, the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO-6) arrested 545 wanted persons during a month-long operation across the region in February.

The 523 operations led to the capture of 76 most wanted persons (MWPs) and 469 other wanted persons.

Of the MWPs, five were listed at the regional level, 17 at the provincial level, and 54 at the municipal level.

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office recorded the highest number of arrests, with 25, accounting for 49 percent of the total arrests.

Other provincial and city police units also contributed significantly to the operation.

PRO-6 Director Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky credited the success of the operation to effective collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities.

“The strong partnership with stakeholders played a crucial role in these arrests. Their support made it easier to track down and capture these fugitives,” Wanky said.

He also emphasized that the police will continue their aggressive pursuit of wanted individuals.

“To those still evading arrest, it’s only a matter of time before the law catches up with you,” he warned.

All those apprehended have been turned over to the appropriate courts for legal proceedings./ML, WDJ