Police Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), warned police commanders in Metro Manila of sanctions if they fail to address illegal gambling problems in their respective areas.

Aberin’s warning is part of his order to intensify illegal gambling operations in all areas in Metro Manila that has so far resulted in the arrest of more than 2,000 people since Nov. 23 this year.

“We are committed to eradicating these illegal activities that harm our communities. The NCRPO’s intensified campaign against illegal gambling is aligned with the PNP’s thrust of effective enforcement of all laws,” said Aberin.

He said the NCRPO’s intensified strategy includes intelligence-driven operations, strict enforcement of anti-gambling laws, and community engagement as partnerships with local government units and barangays have strengthened efforts to dismantle gambling operations at the grassroots level. 

Aberin said the NCRPO is committed to maintaining transparency and accountability within its ranks as internal monitoring ensures that no police personnel is complicit in gambling operations. 

He reiterated that any member found guilty of involvement in illegal gambling will face administrative and criminal charges.

Based on the NCRPO data, a total of 808 anti-illegal gambling operations were carried out from Nov. 23 to Dec. 20 that led to the arrest of 2,010 people and confiscation of almost P500,000 cash.

The most common violations identified were Cara y Cruz, playing cards, betting, dice games, EZ2, and lotteng.