DUMAGUETE CITY: Police in Negros Oriental arrested more than 800 individuals in week-long enhanced operations across the province, an official said Tuesday. Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO), reported that the arrests were made between October 29 and November 3 as part of simultaneous operations named ‘Huli Days,’ coinciding with the twin celebrations of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

According to Philippines News Agency, the NOPPO’s consolidated report indicated that 11 anti-illegal drug operations led to the arrest of 12 individuals and the confiscation of 62.84 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of PHP427,000. In addition, 79 individuals were apprehended for illegal gambling, resulting in the seizure of PHP5,540 in bet money across 27 operations.

Furthermore, efforts to capture fugitives resulted in 27 operations, leading to the arrest of 10 most wanted individuals and 17 other wanted persons. Operations targeting loose fi
rearms also led to the confiscation or surrender of 30 firearms from 28 operations.

In a broader scope, a total of 700 individuals were apprehended for violating local ordinances in various towns and cities. Lt. Polinar explained that Oplan ‘Huli Days’ marked the fourth Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation conducted in October. This initiative was part of a special directive from higher headquarters to ensure a peaceful observance of Undas, amidst the influx of people returning to their hometowns.

Despite reports of shooting and stabbing incidents during the Undas in Negros Oriental, Polinar clarified that these incidents were not directly related to the religious celebrations.