BUTUAN CITY – Police arrested five persons from Nueva Ecija for illegal possession of firearms and explosives in Barobo town, Surigao del Sur province, on Thursday, Nov. 14.
Police Regional Office 13-Regional Public Information Office chief Police Major Jennifer S. Ometer identified the suspects as Log, 38; Mic, 48; Jes, 52; Jer, 41; and Noa, 34.
Investigation said two of the suspects evaded a police checkpoint in Hinatuan town, Surigao del Sur after police observed a firearm muzzle visibly protruding from their tactical bag while they were passing by on board a single motorcycle.
Police, with the help of soldiers and local officials, tracked the suspects to a house in Barobo where they were apprehended.
“Iniimbistigahan pa sila (suspect) ng maigi kung bakit mayron silang mga armas at mga explosibo, and our operating units are also zeroing on their real identity and presence in the area and their other transaction in Surigao del Sur,” Ometer said.
PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Alan M. Nazarro commended the police and military for arresting the suspects who yielded two hand grenades, two caliber .45 pistols with loaded magazines, one caliber .30 rifle, and a black Bajaj CT 125 motorcycle.
“We attribute the success of their arrest to the cooperation of the community, which was instrumental in locating the suspects,” he said.
“We were able to preempt their possible plans of committing crimes or illegal activities,” Nazarro said. “I encourage every peace-loving member of our community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or individuals to the nearest police station.”
The suspects face cases for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.