SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – Police Regional Office 1 (PRO 1) made significant strides in its April campaign against crime, showcasing its dedication to public safety through a series of successful operations.
 
In the pursuit of justice, PRO 1 successfully captured 27 most wanted persons and an additional 326 wanted individuals within the region.
 
The relentless fight against illegal drugs saw 95 meticulous operations conducted, resulting in the arrest of 106 suspects.
 
A significant amount of contraband was confiscated, including: 84,300 marijuana plants, 2,589.58 grams of dried marijuana leaves, and 2,864.37 grams of shabu.
 
The combined market value of these seized drugs is P36,648,461.68.
 
Addressing the threat of loose firearms, PRO 1 conducted 24 operations, leading to the confiscation of 25 assorted firearms and the apprehension of 24 individuals.
 
These efforts were further bolstered by Oplan Katok, which resulted in the voluntary surrender of 82 firearms and an additional 30 firearms turned over for safekeeping.
 
PRO 1 conducted 48 operations against all forms of illegal gambling, leading to the arrest of 131 suspects and the confiscation of P93,062 in bet money and various gambling paraphernalia.
 
Forty one cases were subsequently filed in court.
 
PRO 1's unwavering commitment to internal security yielded the voluntary surrender of 48 communist terrorist group (CTG) members, who also turned in three firearms and three explosives.
 
Additionally, 15 communist front organization (CFO) members surrendered, yielding two firearms and one explosive.
 
Police Brigadier General Lou Evangelista, PRO 1 regional director, attributed these achievements to PRO 1's focused agenda, strategic crime prevention efforts, and the effective execution of their operational quad concept.
 
He commended the dedication and professionalism of his personnel, highlighting their role in securing the region.
 
"These remarkable achievements underscore PRO 1's dedication to creating a secure region," he stressed.
 
General Evangelista assured the public of PRO 1's continued commitment to upholding the highest standards of service and ensuring the safety of all residents within their jurisdiction. (JCR/AMB/PIA Region 1)