Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte – In a decisive law enforcement operation, the Del Carmen Municipal Police Station apprehended two fishermen accused of illegal fishing on November 13, 2024.
The two suspects, aged 40 and 42, are married and residents of Purok 5, Barangay Caub. Their arrest was carried out under a warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 31, Dapa, Surigao del Norte, 10th Judicial Region, dated October 31, 2024. The warrant pertained to charges under Section 92 of Republic Act 10654, which penalizes illegal fishing, filed under Criminal Case No. 24-120.
The simultaneous arrests were conducted at the suspects’ residence between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM. The court has set bail at PHP 60,000.00 for each accused.
Police Colonel Nilo T. Texon, Officer-in-Charge of the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office, praised the Del Carmen police for their commitment to upholding the law.
“I commend the commitment of our Del Carmen police force to enforcing justice and holding individuals accountable for their actions. This serves as a reminder of our dedication to justice and the importance of respecting our laws and the rights of others,” said PCOL Texon.
The operation highlights the local authorities’ vigilance in protecting the environment and ensuring that fishing activities adhere to legal standards. Illegal fishing remains a significant threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihood of law-abiding fisherfolk.
The suspects are currently in police custody awaiting further legal proceedings.