PRESS RELEASE PNP AKG Authority: PBGEN RODOLFO D CASTIL, JR Director, AKG August 4, 2023
Camp BGen Rafael T Crame, Quezon City – In a continuous manhunt operation, the PNP AKG together with City Intelligence Unit – City Special Operation Unit (CIU-CSOU) (lead unit); Iligan City Mobile Force Company (ICMFC); SWAT; and AKG Mindanao Field Unit (MFU) arrested another key member of the notorious Lumuguis Kidnap for Ransom Group (KFRG) last night in Iligan City. The arrest took place on August 3, 2023, at about 10:30 PM, following an intensive investigation and coordinated efforts by the police.
Joseph A Bariga, 46 years-old, and a resident of Brgy. Abuno, Iligan City played a crucial role in the nefarious activities of the said Kidnap for Ransom Group operating in the region.
The operation leading to the arrest was carried out by a joint task force comprising different units of the Philippine National Police by virtue of Warrant of Arrest dated July 28, 2023 issued by Hon. Jimmy Bustillo Boco, Presiding Judge, RTC Branch 2, 11th Judicial Region, Tagum City, Davao del Norte for the crime of Kidnapping Under Article 267 of the Revised Penal Code with Criminal Case Number 30003 with No Bail recommended. Acting on credible intelligence, the task force swiftly moved to arrest the suspect at a residence in Iligan City.
Record shows that the suspect was involved in the kidnapping of Amil Sanama Jamara on October 2, 2022, at about 11:00 AM in Tagum City, Davao del Norte and based on the sworn statement of the kidnap victim, the said accused served as a driver and guard during the kidnapping incident.
PBGEN RODOLFO D CASTIL, JR, praised the dedication and professionalism of the joint task force involved in the operation. The successful arrest represents a significant blow to the notorious group, who were responsible for numerous cases of kidnapping-for-ransom.
“We will continue our relentless pursuit of remaining members of this Kidnap-for-Ransom Group, vowing to eradicate the criminal syndicate and bring all those responsible for their heinous acts to justice. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, fostering a safer environment for all residents of Iligan City and its neighboring areas.” PBGEN CASTIL, JR said.
The arrested individual was brought to Police Station 5, Iligan City Police Office for documentation and for temporary detention pending the return of the Warrant of Arrest to the issuing court.
