LEGAZPI CITY, Albay – Police killed Bicol's most wanted person in an operation in Barangay San Martin de Porres, Paranaque City on Wednesday night, January 24.
Police Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office-5 (Bicol) spokesperson, identified the suspect as Gilbert Concepcion, leader of the Concepcion Gang and was in the list of most wanted persons by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
A P420,000 reward was offered for the neutralization of Concepcion, who was involved in numerous heinous crimes in the region.
“Gilbert Concepcion has a monetary reward amounting to P420,000,” Calubaquib said. "Concepcion, the mastermind behind the notorious Concepcion Criminal Group, infamous for extortion in Albay, finally faced justice. As Bicol's most wanted for heinous crimes, including multiple murders, his reign of terror has concluded. Given his extensive criminal involvement, a reward has been offered for his arrest," she added.
Calubaquib said that police were about to serve warrant of arrests against Concepcion but instead of surrendering peacefully, the suspect fired at them, prompting lawmen to return fire and kill him and an unidentified companion.
The suspect had a warrant of arrest for kidnapping with murder, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, murder, direct assault, and rape.
Concepcion was tagged as one of the suspects in the killing of former Makati City Engineer Nelson Morales in 2012.
Recovered from the suspect were firearms, ten magazines, and five fired cartridge cases.
PRO-5 chief Police Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon said that the operation is a testament of their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the community.
"We remain steadfast in the campaign against lawlessness and criminality. We assure you that we will not rest until our region is free from the grip of those who threaten our peace and security. While we commend the exceptional courage and dedication displayed by our personnel who were involved in this operation, we also recognize the invaluable support and cooperation of the people of our community,” Dizon said.
“Your trust and your willingness to work hand-in-hand with us have been instrumental in our success. This achievement is a testament of unity and shared responsibility in ensuring the safety and security of our region," he added.
He urged the people of Bicol to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities and individuals.
"Your continued support and cooperation are crucial as we strive to build a region where our families can thrive and our communities can prosper. Together, we have achieved a significant victory in our fight against crime. Let us build upon this success and continue our collective efforts in creating a Bicol region that is free from the clutches of criminality and a safe haven for all."