South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur – The Maguindanao Del Sur Police Provincial Office (MDSPPO) successfully apprehended the province’s top 7 most wanted individual and the municipality’s top 6 most wanted person in a decisive police operation on February 3, 2025. The arrests were made at 2:49 PM in Sitio Plato, Barangay Mirab, South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur.
The suspects were wanted for violations of Section 4(C) and Section 4(A) of Republic Act 11596, an act that strictly prohibits child marriage in the Philippines. The operation was a testament to MDSPPO’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law, combating criminal activities, and ensuring the safety and security of the people in Maguindanao.
The successful arrest was the result of coordinated efforts between the South Upi Municipal Police Station (MPS), the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) of MDSPPO, the Upi MPS of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (MDSPPO), and the 1st Maneuver Platoon of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of MDSPPO. Their dedication to intelligence gathering and strategic tactical planning played a pivotal role in locating and capturing these high-profile fugitives.
The warrants for their arrest were issued by Honorable Annabelle D.P. Piang, Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court (RTC), 12th Judicial Region, Branch 13, in Cotabato City, Maguindanao, dated February 6, 2025. Each suspect was assigned a bail amount of Seventy-Two Thousand Pesos (Php 72,000.00). Authorities have ensured that due process has been observed throughout the legal proceedings, reinforcing the integrity of law enforcement efforts in the region.
Currently, the apprehended individuals are in the custody of South Upi MPS for documentation and proper disposition.
PCOL Ryan Bobby C. Paloma, the Provincial Director of MDSPPO, commended the operating troops for their exemplary performance. “As part of elevating the quality of police service, MDSPPO remains steadfast in ensuring operational readiness to address security and public safety demands, especially as the 2025 National and Local Elections draw nearer,” PCOL Paloma stated.
The arrest underscores MDSPPO’s ongoing efforts to maintain law and order, demonstrating the police force’s resolve to rid Maguindanao of criminal elements and reinforce peace and stability within the community.