Operatives of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) arrested a student for his alleged involvement in gun-running activities following a buy-bust operation conducted in Makati City, a ranking police official said.
NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin said the operation stemmed from the confirmed intelligence reports about the illegal sale of firearms involving the suspect, adding that police intervention was further intensified against proliferation of firearms as part of the security measures for the midterm elections in May this year.
After the communication with the suspect, Metro Manila policemen were able to negotiate for the purchase of some firearms from the suspect.
The arrest was announced after the transaction at a parking lot along Don Chino Roces Avenue Extension in Barangay Magallanes in Makati City on Thursday, according to Aberin.
Seized from the suspect were a 5.56 Rifle Model SLR-B15 (SLR Rifle Works LLC), a 5.7 Ruger pistol; two 5.56 magazines; two 5.7 magazines loaded with 40 rounds of live ammunition; one black sling bag containing the Ruger pistol; one black inside holster for the Ruger Pistol and 40 rounds of Cal. 5.7 live ammunition.
The suspect failed to present any document that would make his possession of the firearms valid, according to Aberin.
Aberin said forensic analysis of the confiscated firearms is underway to determine any links to previous crimes.
“This operation sends a clear message—NCRPO will not tolerate unlicensed firearms that threaten public safety and the credibility of our elections. We have intensified intelligence operations to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms, especially in preparation for election security,” said Aberin.