The Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) has already seized a total of 1,893,386.05 peso-worth of drugs over the past six months since January this year, according to its biannual report.
Data shows that 315 grams of shabu and five grams of marijuana were confiscated mostly from top drug personalities, through buy-bust operations, raids and search warrants.
INPPO said their relentless joint operations throughout the province are in response to Governor Imee Marcos administration’s aggressive campaign against illegal drugs.
Provincial Director Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the local police force will continue their efforts to significantly decrease drug-related activities in Ilocos Norte, noting that most crimes are associated with the use of illegal drugs.
“Almost all of the crimes that have been committed, the denominator is (the use) of drugs. Will you commit theft if you’re not under the influence of drugs?” he said.
Director Nartatez also added that the peace and order situation in Ilocos Norte has improved, underlining the increase of arrests of drug personalities.
He also shared that the occurrence of crimes, including physical injuries, theft, robbery, rape and carnappings, decreased to an average of five recorded cases from 15 in a week.
Director Nartatez explained that it is because “we have increased our crime solution efficiency. ‘Pagka may nangyari, sinisigurado ko na maimbestigahang mabuti, ma-identify at mapilahan ng kaso.”
He added that in order to maintain safety and security in the province, INPPO increased the presence of police officers in various areas and continuously ensures the arrest of suspected personalities.
Meanwhile, Governor Marcos has earlier expressed full support to President Rodrigo Duterte administration’s plans to fight criminality in the country through the provincial government’s cooperation with the joint military forces.—Jennifer T. Pambid, PGIN-CMO
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