The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized three unlicensed firearms, including a sub-machine gun and an M1 Garand rifle, during a raid in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat.
The operation was carried out around 3 am on May 13 in Barangay Magsaysay by the CIDG Sultan Kudarat Provincial Field Unit, together with local police units, through a search warrant for alleged violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Authorities arrested a 48-year-old married man identified only as alias “Bert” after he was allegedly found in possession of the firearms without the required permits, licenses or authority.
Seized during the raid were a Springfield Garand rifle, a 9mm sub-machine gun, a .45-caliber pistol, magazines and assorted live ammunition.
A report submitted to CIDG Director Police Major Gen. Robert AA Morico II said the firearms were not duly registered, making the suspect’s possession and control of the weapons illegal.
The CIDG said the operation formed part of its intensified implementation of Oplan Paglalansag Omega, the police campaign against loose firearms, in line with the directive of Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
CIDG officials commended Police Col. Annie Mangelen, regional chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 12, the Sultan Kudarat provincial field unit led by Police Maj. Jasper Benedict Santos, and participating police units for the arrest and recovery of the firearms.
The CIDG said the seizure reflects its continuing efforts to account for and remove unlicensed firearms from communities to prevent their use in crimes and violence.
It also assured the public that it would continue operations against loose firearms, gunrunning groups and gun-for-hire syndicates across the country.