2021 RECAP: 702 INDIVIDUALS ARRESTED FOR ILLEGAL GAMBLING

A total of 702 individuals were arrested for engaging in various forms of illegal gambling as PROCOR Cops continue to step up on their anti-illegal gambling efforts.

During the 12 months intensified police operations conducted from January- December 2021, the number of arrested individuals almost doubled from 381 in 2020 to 702 in 2021.

Based on the records of the Regional Operations Management Division (ROMD), a total of 151 anti-illegal gambling operations were conducted in different provinces of the Region that resulted in the confiscation of PHP 704,617.00 cash bets and gambling paraphernalia while 143 cases were filed against the arrested suspects.

Further, the same record shows that Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) recorded the highest number of arrests with 231 followed by Abra Police Provincial Office (PPO) with 224 arrests, Benguet PPO with 147 arrests, Kalinga PPO with 45 arrests, Mt Province PPO with 36 arrests, Ifugao PPO with 10 arrests, and Apayao PPO with 9 arrests.

All apprehended suspects were charged for violation of Presidential Decree No. 1602 which prescribes stiffer penalties on Illegal Gambling. (PROCOR-PIO)