World · Philippines Bureau
Top fugitive in Eastern Visayas arrested in Leyte operation
Police have apprehended a construction worker wanted for multiple counts of child sexual abuse in a manhunt operation in Leyte. The arrest marks a significant development in efforts to capture the region's most wanted criminal.
LSN Philippines ·
Law enforcement officers arrested Lito Yaon Paghunasan, 50, during an operation in Polompon, Leyte on Thursday as part of intensified efforts to capture the Eastern Visayas' most wanted fugitive. Paghunasan, a construction worker from Barangay Cabungaan in Sto. Niño, Samar, faced five counts of qualified rape involving a minor.
The arrest came following a coordinated manhunt that culminated in Polompon town. Authorities had prioritized locating Paghunasan due to the serious nature of charges against him and his long-standing status as a regional flight risk.
The case underscores ongoing police efforts to apprehend high-profile suspects wanted for crimes against children. Officials did not immediately provide additional details regarding the circumstances of the arrest or planned legal proceedings.