Davao City – A joint police operation led to the arrest of one of the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) National Most Wanted Persons, identified as Romeo Matmat Roloos, alias “Dingcal,” on September 27, 2024. The suspect was apprehended at Purok 5, Kahayag, New Bataan, Davao de Oro.
The operation was carried out by a collaborative effort between the Provincial Intelligence Team (PIT) of Davao Occidental and the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) 11, under the command of PCOL Ryan Bobby C. Paloma. The Regional Intelligence Division (RID), PRO 11, led by PCOL Christopher M. Bermudez, alongside the New Bataan Municipal Police Station and Davao de Oro Police Provincial Office, also played significant roles. The joint effort was overseen by PBGEN Leon Victor Z. Rosete, Acting Regional Director, PRO 11, and was based on intelligence provided by RIU 11 Davao Occidental.
Alias Dingcal had been wanted for murder under Criminal Case No. 46,765-2001. A warrant for his arrest was issued on October 10, 2003, by Hon. Wenceslao E. Ibabao, Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court, 11th Judicial Region, Branch 16, in Davao City. No bail was recommended for his case.
Roloos was implicated in the murder of Police Officer 1 (PO1) Jorge Sapero, a member of the Philippine National Police (PNP), who was assigned to the Regional Intelligence Division, PRO 11. The murder took place on January 7, 2001, at Kabayan Relocation, Tibungco, Davao City. Sapero was responding to a resident’s plea for help when he was ambushed and killed by Dingcal and several accomplices.
Following the crime, Dingcal evaded arrest and reportedly joined the New People’s Army (NPA) in Davao de Oro, helping him avoid capture for over two decades. His name was added to the DILG’s National Most Wanted Persons list, with a reward of Php 75,000 offered for his capture.
After years on the run, alias Dingcal is now in the custody of New Bataan Municipal Police Station, where he will face legal procedures. His arrest is a major victory in the PNP’s ongoing campaign against criminality.
PBGEN Rosete, who recently assumed his role as Acting Regional Director, emphasized that the successful operation is a testament to the dedication of law enforcement in serving warrants and maintaining peace and security. He commended the teams involved for their coordinated efforts in bringing Roloos to justice, reinforcing the PNP’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety.
