PLACER, Surigao del Norte — A high-ranking member of an alleged communist insurgent group and one of the region’s most wanted fugitives was arrested in a coordinated manhunt operation on April 21, 2026, marking a significant breakthrough in the government’s intensified campaign against terrorism.
Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Surigao del Norte Field Unit, in coordination with territorial police units, apprehended the suspect—identified only by the alias “Ric,” 46, a resident of Barangay Bad-as—at around 2:20 p.m. in the municipality of Placer.
The arrest was carried out by virtue of standing warrants issued by a Surigao City court for two grave offenses: murder, dated 2021, and kidnapping, issued in 2020.
A report submitted to CIDG Director PMGen Robert A.A. Morico II identified the suspect as a member of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), allegedly serving as team leader of the “Sentro de Grabidad” under Guerrilla Front 16 of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
Authorities said the accused was listed in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Periodic Status Report for the first quarter of 2022 and ranked as the No. 7 Most Wanted Person in the region under Police Regional Office 13.
Grave Charges and Violent Past
Police records link the suspect to a series of serious crimes in Surigao del Norte over the past several years.
On April 5, 2020, the accused, along with 11 alleged members of Guerrilla Front 16 under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), reportedly abducted three male students in Sitio Abobo, Barangay Pongtud, Bacuag. The victims had gone to the mountainous area to produce charcoal but failed to return home, sparking concern among their families and local authorities.
More than a year later, on July 26, 2021, the same suspect allegedly carried out a fatal shooting in Barangay Bad-as, Placer. Authorities said the victim was shot at close range using a firearm, resulting in instantaneous death. The attack was described as treacherous, suggesting premeditation.
Part of Intensified Anti-Terror Drive
The operation forms part of the Philippine National Police’s renewed push to neutralize individuals linked to insurgency and terrorism, in line with the directives of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.
CIDG leadership commended the operatives behind the successful arrest, particularly PLTCOL Butch Ian C. Miñoza, officer-in-charge of CIDG Regional Field Unit 13, and PLTCOL Darwin B. Dura, head of the CIDG Surigao del Norte Provincial Field Unit.
Officials said the capture underscores law enforcement’s commitment to delivering justice for victims of violent crimes while dismantling networks associated with armed insurgency.
Relentless Pursuit of Fugitives
In a statement, the CIDG reiterated its resolve to pursue wanted persons across the country without fear or favor, emphasizing its unwavering stance against terrorism and criminality.
“The arrest of this high-value individual sends a strong message that no fugitive can evade the long arm of the law indefinitely,” the CIDG said.
Authorities have yet to release further details on the custody and legal proceedings for the suspect, but assured the public that operations will continue to track down remaining fugitives linked to serious crimes and threats to national security.