BUTUAN CITY – The Police Regional Office-13 apprehended 205 individuals for illegal fishing and gambling in the week-long Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO) in the Caraga region from June 26 to July 2.
The PRO-13 Regional Operations Division (ROD) said 211 operations against illegal fishing resulted in the arrest of 154 suspects and the confiscation of 408.60 kilograms of assorted fish with an estimated market value of P160,701.
Arrested individuals were charged with violation of municipal ordinances, it said.
PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Pablo G. Labra II said they are serious about their campaign to save marine life and resources.
“We encourage the cooperation of the local folks to curtail illegal fishing activities in various parts of the region,” Labra said.
Fifty-one persons were arrested in 27 anti-illegal gambling operations where P15,061 in bet money was seized.
“A criminal complaint for violation of PD No. 1602 was filed by our investigators against the suspects,” Labra said.
“The fight against illegal gambling and fishing requires collective effort,” he said.
“Aside from the PNP, it is also the duty of our people to protect the vulnerable, preserve our natural resources, and uphold the rule of law.”