Surigao del Norte — April 24, 2025 — A total of 801 individuals were arrested in a series of intensified law enforcement operations led by the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office from January 4 to April 23, 2025, under the leadership of Provincial Director PCOL Warren E. Dablo.
In just under three months, the local police carried out a wide range of operations targeting illegal drugs, wanted persons, loose firearms, illegal fishing, illegal logging, illegal gambling, and smuggled goods. The province’s top cop highlighted that the crackdown was part of the police force’s broader effort to ensure peace and security in Surigao del Norte.
Crackdown on Illegal Drugs
A total of 107 anti-drug operations—comprised of 97 buy-busts, nine search warrant implementations, and one incidental arrest—resulted in the confiscation of 472.15 grams of illegal drugs, valued at ₱3.21 million. These operations led to the arrest of 118 individuals.
Hunt for Fugitives
Efforts to bring fugitives to justice saw the arrest of 179 individuals, including 22 most wanted persons at regional, provincial, and municipal levels. The operations covered 155 missions across the province.
Campaign Against Loose Firearms
In support of measures to curb gun-related violence, 178 loose firearms were accounted for in 72 separate operations. Authorities seized 14 firearms and two explosives, while 42 firearms were surrendered voluntarily, and 120 were turned in for safekeeping. Six suspects were apprehended during the operations.
Protecting Marine Resources
In an ongoing campaign to preserve marine life, police intercepted over 1,153 kilograms of illegally caught fish, worth more than ₱420,000. These seizures were made during 223 operations, which also resulted in the arrest of 349 violators.
Forest Protection and Anti-Logging Campaign
The anti-illegal logging drive led to the confiscation of 4,431.56 board feet of lumber valued at ₱132,263. Authorities arrested 51 individuals in 21 separate operations.
Crackdown on Illegal Gambling
A total of ₱29,141 was seized in 33 anti-gambling operations, with 81 individuals taken into custody.
Seizure of Smuggled Cigarettes
In 14 operations targeting the illegal tobacco trade, police confiscated 317 reams of smuggled cigarettes valued at ₱265,534. Seventeen suspects were arrested.
PCOL Dablo credited the success of the operations to the dedication of the Surigao del Norte police personnel and the unwavering support of the local community.
“During my three-month tenure as Provincial Director, the Surigao del Norte Police prioritized safety and intensified its operations in a relentless campaign against all forms of illegal activity,” Dablo said. “We remain resolute in our mission to safeguard every Surigaonon. Our commitment to peace, order, and public safety in Surigao del Norte remains immovable.”
He emphasized that the success of these operations would not have been possible without the cooperation of the community.