The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confiscated 10 unlicensed firearms and a fragmentation grenade while arresting five individuals in a series of operations conducted nationwide within 24 hours.
The operations, carried out under the CIDG’s intensified campaign against loose firearms, involved the implementation of search warrants and buy-bust operations for violations of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
CIDG director Police Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II said the crackdown forms part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing effort to curb illegal firearms and prevent violent crimes linked to armed groups and criminal syndicates.
In Capiz, operatives from the CIDG Provincial Field Unit served a search warrant in Barangay Canapian, Maayon, at around 4:10 am, resulting in the seizure of four firearms, including caliber .45 and 9mm pistols, a caliber-.38 revolver, and a homemade 12-gauge shotgun.
Authorities also recovered a fragmentation grenade, magazines, and assorted ammunition during the raid. The suspect found in possession of the items was arrested.
A second operation was conducted later in Barangay Sta. Fe in Pilar, Capiz that led to the confiscation of another unregistered firearm and the arrest of its alleged owner.
Meanwhile, in Pangasinan, CIDG operatives raided a residence in Barangay Coliling, San Carlos City, where authorities seized two caliber-.22 rifles, a caliber-.38 revolver, magazines, and ammunition. One suspect was taken into custody.
The CIDG commended the operating units involved in the operations, saying the removal of illegal firearms and explosives from circulation helps prevent shootings, gun-for-hire activities, and other violent crimes.
Morico also praised regional and provincial CIDG units in Western Visayas and Ilocos Region for the successful operations.
The CIDG said it remains committed to sustaining aggressive operations against loose firearms and explosives as part of the government’s nationwide peace and security campaign.