LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Police arrested on Monday, September 25, a suspect in the ambush of former Pangasinan Gov. Amado Espino Jr. in 2019.
ALIPIO (Photo via Liezle Basa-Inigo)
Pangasinan Police Provincial Office chief Police Col. Jeff Fanged identified the suspect as Arnulfo Cerezo Alipio, alias “Anong.”
Fanged said the suspect, a key member of the infamous Sison Group and Potential Private Armed Group (PPAG), was nabbed in his house in Naguilayan, Binmaley, this province.
Alipio was considered Pangasinan’s most notorious criminal and a former municipal councilor of Binmaley.
Police said Alipio was involved in multiple gun-for-hire activities not only in Pangasinan but also in neighboring provinces.
“He kept the entire National Capital Region on its toes owing to his illicit activities. The Department of the Interior and Local Government, under Memorandum Circular 2021-120, had an imminent reward of P355,000 for his capture,” Fanged said.
Alipio is wanted for murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder in connection with the Espino ambush.
Warrants of arrest were issued by Presiding Judge Magnolia V. Cayetano of the Regional Trial Court, 1st Judicial Region, Branch 56, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, dated February 15, 2021.
Police said arresting officers diligently adhered to protocol, used an alternative recording device, and ensured Alipio's constitutional rights were respected.
Alipio is undergoing documentation and disposition.