MIMAROPA — The Mimaropa region has witnessed a significant decrease in its crime rate, with a 63.64 percent drop during the first week of August compared to the same period last year. This notable reduction in crime encompasses the provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan.
According to Philippines News Agency, there were only 52 reported crimes from August 1 to 7 this year, a sharp decrease from the 143 incidents recorded during the same period in the previous year. The successful reduction in crime rates is attributed to intensified police operations across the region.
The recent campaign against wanted individuals resulted in the arrest of 68 suspects, including 20 classified as most wanted at the regional, provincial, and municipal levels. Additionally, law enforcement agencies apprehended 19 drug suspects and seized approximately 54.62 grams of shabu, valued at an estimated PHP371,388.
The region's crackdown on illegal activities also extended to operations against illegal logging, which resulted in the confiscation of 180 board feet of logs valued at PHP9,000. Moreover, police conducted four anti-illegal gambling operations, leading to 15 arrests.
All arrested suspects have been taken to local police stations for further investigation, documentation, and proper legal processing. These concerted efforts underscore the region's commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety.