24 arrested in police operation in Tejero

Guns, illegal drugs, and gambling machines were confiscated and 24 people were rounded up at Alviola Street in barangay Tejero by the city police’s Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Branch, and the Special Weapons and Tactics team late Saturday evening.

Tejero is one of the urban barangays listed among the drug-affected areas, prompting the police to launch the operation in the area, especially after receiving tips of illegal activities being done there that day.

The operation was led by deputy city police director, Supt. Pablo Labra, Chief Insp. Arnel Banzon, and Sr. Insp. George Ylanan.

Two suspects, Oliver Vargas and Roel Gingoyon, were arrested for possession of unlicensed .38 caliber revolvers loaded with bullets, while another suspect Eric Manso was arrested for tucking an icepick on his waist.

Another suspect, Herodes dela Cruz, was caught in possession of five medium-size packs and one big pack all containing suspected shabu.

Police went deeper into the interior portion of the area and caught nine people betting on four gambling machines, and the alleged caretaker of the place, Gerry Gallway.

The arrested six bettors, all residents of Mandaue City, are Pablo Siclot, Ronilo Tabaco, Ricky Delarmente, Ares Loberanes, Allan Rivera and Ernesto Balansar. 

Two others, residents of barangay Mabolo, are Jay Ruiz and Jonnel Ruiz, while the ninth arrested suspect was Joven Orbiso, a resident of Tejero.

The operatives also seized the four gambling machines.   — Edwin Ian Melecio/RAE