ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) -- The Police Regional Office (PRO)-9, led by Regional Director Brigadier General Bowenn Joey M Masauding, reaffirms its commitment to maintaining law and order in the Zamboanga Peninsula, addressing a wide range of criminal activities.

In a recent report from the Oversight Committee for Anti-Illegal Drugs, Enhanced Managing Police Operation, and Anti-Illegal Gambling, the committee highlighted key achievements from the preceding year and outlined strategies for sustaining positive gains in law enforcement.

Operational Milestones and Impactful Campaigns in 2023

Anti-Illegal Drug Operations:

Throughout 2023, PRO-9 executed a total of 1,098 anti-illegal drug operations, resulting in the apprehension of 1,230 suspects. Confiscations included 174.67 grams of marijuana and 14,754.9578 grams of shabu, valued at P100,354,673.44 according to Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) estimates. Notably, a significant accomplishment involved the confiscation of seven (7) kilograms of shabu in Barangay Putik, Zamboanga City, with a standard drug price of P47,600,000.00, leading to the arrest of a tricycle operator.

These accomplishments underscore the commitment of law enforcement agencies to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens from the detrimental impact of narcotics.

Wanted Persons Apprehension:

The committee successfully apprehended 335 most wanted persons and 1,795 other wanted persons, significantly contributing to law enforcement efforts.

Notably, Matias Gonzaga Gaquit a.k.a. ”Apyot, Opong, Perno” who was ranked as National Level Most Wanted Person and a Periodic Status Report (PSR)-Listed communist terrorist group member, was served with warrants of arrest for two counts of murder, frustrated murder, and rebellion. The subject is listed as the most wanted person with a monetary reward amounting to P4,800,000.000.

The police said the arrest of most wanted persons promotes public safety and enforcement of the law. When most wanted individuals are apprehended, it helps to bring them to justice for their alleged crimes, ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions. The arrest of most wanted persons also contributes to the overall reduction of criminal activity and the maintenance of law and order within a community.

Combatting Illegal Fishing:

In the campaign against illegal fishing, 754 operations led to the arrest of 1,409 suspects, confiscation of articles totaling P589,000,020, and seizure of 36,246,475,000 paraphernalia, handed over to the Bureau of Fisheries.

Crackdown on Illegal Logging:

Efforts against illegal logging resulted in 226 operations, arresting 45 suspects, and confiscating a significant volume of 82,894.39 board feet, valued at approximately P3,230,527.00.

Smuggling Deterrence:

A total of 114 operations targeting smuggling activities led to the arrest of 171 suspects and the confiscation of smuggled items worth P153,565,000.00.

Commitment to Excellence and Accountability

The committee expressed pride in the outstanding achievements of all units during the past year, urging continued exceptional efforts. Deputy Regional Director for Operations, Police Colonel Romeo A. Espero, Jr., emphasized the commitment to maintain oversight functions, commending exemplary performance and taking action against underperforming commanders and chiefs of police when necessary.

“I want to emphasize that while commendation will be given where due, there will be consequences for those who do not uphold their responsibilities. Let us all strive for excellence and unwavering commitment to our duties," stated PCol Espero. (RVC/CCP/PIA9)