TACLOBAN CITY — Authorities have arrested the top most wanted person in Eastern Visayas in a joint law enforcement operation in Barangay Sherwood, Albuera, Leyte on April 6, 2026.
The Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) confirmed the arrest of a 29-year-old farmer, identified only by the alias “John,” a resident of the said barangay, who was tagged as the region’s top murder suspect.
He was apprehended by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued on February 10, 2026 by the Regional Trial Court Branch 14 in Baybay City for murder, with no bail recommended.
LPPO Public Information Officer P/Lt. Mary Antonette Espina said the arrest underscores the sustained efforts of law enforcement agencies in tracking down fugitives and maintaining peace and order in the region.
“The arrest of this most wanted person is a major step toward ensuring peace and order in Albuera and across Eastern Visayas,” Espina said.
She added that the successful operation reflects strong coordination among various police units and intelligence groups in the region.
The joint operation was carried out by personnel from the 1st Leyte Provincial Mobile Force Company, Albuera Municipal Police Station, Provincial Intelligence Unit–LPPO, Regional Intelligence Unit 8 – City Intelligence Team, and the Anti-Kidnapping Group Visayas Field Unit Ormoc Satellite Office.
Espina further emphasized that the LPPO remains committed to intensifying its campaign against wanted persons and criminality to ensure the safety and security of communities across Eastern Visayas.
(RICARDO TODIO, JR.,LNU STUDENT INTERN)
