By Nino Luces
CAMP OLA, Albay – At least 501 individuals were arrested for illegal gambling during the implementation of Luzonwide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).
Police Major Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5) spokesperson, said that out of 149 operations conducted from March 17 to April 13, 501 persons were arrested for violating the illegal gambling laws.
The province of Albay listed the most number of arrests with 220, followed by Sorsogon with 106, Camarines Norte with 79, Masbate with 62, Naga City with 19 and Catanduanes with 10.
Calubaquib said that 120 cases have been filed in court against these violators.
Those apprehended were classified as bettors and players of different illegal gambling such card games, plastic tiles or dice games and cockfighting.
Calubaquib said that the operations have resulted in the confiscation of P88,237 in cash.
"PNP Bikol will continue its strengthened operations in the aim to curb Illegal gambling activities in the region in conformity with Executive Order No.13 signed by President Duterte.It likewise, calls upon the community as well as the LGUs in eradicating illegal gambling and other prohibited games of chance where corruption breeds," she said.
Calubaquib warned that the PNP leadership was also strictly implementing "No Take and One Strike Policy" that prohibits policemen from taking protection money and gifts from gambling operators.