SERGIO OSMEÑA, Zamboanga del Norte — A member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) who was wanted for murder was arrested by joint police and military forces during a coordinated law enforcement operation in Barangay Nueva Vista, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte, on June 5, 2026.
The arrest was carried out at approximately 8:50 a.m. through the combined efforts of personnel from the 1st Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company, the Sergio Osmeña Municipal Police Station (MPS), the Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office, and the 53rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
Authorities said the suspect was apprehended by virtue of a warrant of arrest for the crime of murder issued by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 9, in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. The operation stemmed from intelligence and tracking efforts conducted by security forces aimed at locating wanted individuals facing serious criminal charges.
Following the arrest, the suspect was brought to the custody of the Sergio Osmeña Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and legal proceedings.
Police Brigadier General Dennis A. Esguerra, Officer-in-Charge of Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9), lauded the operating units for the successful implementation of the operation, emphasizing the importance of strong coordination between law enforcement agencies and the military in ensuring public safety and bringing fugitives before the courts.
“This successful operation reflects the commitment of our law enforcement and security forces to uphold the rule of law and ensure that individuals facing serious criminal charges are held accountable,” Esguerra said.
He noted that intelligence-driven operations and close inter-agency collaboration remain critical in the government’s efforts to pursue wanted persons, suppress criminality, and address insurgency-related threats across the region.
“Through sustained intelligence-driven operations and strong coordination, we remain steadfast in pursuing fugitives, combating criminality and insurgency, and protecting our communities,” he added.
The PRO-9 chief further stressed that the police force will continue intensifying its operations in support of the Philippine National Police’s Eight-Focused Agenda, which seeks to strengthen law enforcement capabilities, maintain peace and order, and improve public trust in the police service.
Authorities underscored that the arrest forms part of the continuing campaign against criminal elements and insurgent-linked individuals operating within the region. The operation also highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability in communities vulnerable to insurgency and violence.
PRO-9 reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and order throughout Region 9 and strengthening public safety initiatives under the banner of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”
Police officials urged the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by providing information that may assist authorities in the arrest of other wanted persons and in maintaining peace and security in their respective communities.