THE Eastern Police District (EPD) recorded a significant 24.68 percent reduction in eight focus crimes across its jurisdiction during July 2026, driven by intensified, proactive law enforcement operations.
According to official figures released by the EPD, total focus crime incidents dropped to 58 from July 1 to 31, compared to 77 recorded throughout June.
Police officials attributed the decline to coordinated strategies carried out across Pasig, Mandaluyong, Marikina, and San Juan city police stations, alongside the District Mobile Force Battalion and district headquarters.
Under the leadership of Acting District Director PBGen. Melecio M. Buslig, Jr., law enforcement units executed targeted drives against illegal drugs, illegal gambling, unregistered firearms, and wanted individuals.
A key highlight of July’s operational accomplishments was the arrest of suspected members of the notorious Gapos Gang in Marikina City, who were caught allegedly impersonating police officers.
Officials noted that neutralizing individuals unlawfully assuming police authority remains a priority to restore public trust and safety.
Anti-illegal drug enforcement formed a major part of the monthly drive. The district conducted 239 operations, leading to the arrest of 282 suspects and the seizure of 496.51 grams of illicit substances—including shabu, marijuana, marijuana oil, and kush—valued at an estimated standard drug price of ₱2,872,957.26.
Simultaneously, anti-gambling enforcement yielded 147 separate operations, resulting in 198 arrests and the confiscation of ₱38,202 in betting money.
In efforts to curb loose firearms, 19 dedicated operations led to the arrest of 23 individuals and the recovery of 23 guns.
The district’s ongoing manhunt operations also saw substantial success, leading to the apprehension of 296 fugitives: 25 top most wanted persons, 47 most wanted persons, and 224 other wanted individuals.
General Buslig commended law enforcement personnel and local community partners for their teamwork, reiterating that sustained police visibility and stronger public partnerships will remain central to maintaining peace and order across the eastern metro area.
