At A Glance
- CIDG director Police Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said his men seized P16 million worth of gun parts and equipment being used for manufacturing firearms
Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized around P16 million worth of firearms and gun parts in an alleged gun manufacturing factory in Los Baños, Laguna.
CIDG director Police Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said the operation stemmed from confirmed intelligence reports about the illegal production of firearms in Barangay San Antonio.
Armed with a search warrant, the CIDG operatives, backed by local the local police force, raided the area and resulted in the confiscation of firearms parts and components- including lower and upper receivers, silencers/suppressors, muzzle brakes, hand guards, magazine guides, barrels and slides.
Also seized were live ammunition, finished and unfinished magazines, charging handle, grips, recoil springs, unfinished magazines, barrel for caliber 5.56 m16 rifle.
Morico said his men also confiscated five Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines and related computer equipment for manufacturing firearms.
“The confiscation of these firearm parts and machinery prevented the manufacture of firearms, thereby significantly preventing crime,” said Morico.
The subject of the arrest warrant was not around during the operation and Morico said a case violation of Section 32 of Republic Act 10591 is being prepared against him.
For his part, national police spokesman Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tuaño said the campaign against unlicensed firearms is not solely a law enforcement effort but a crucial public safety mission.
He explained that the police action to prevent the proliferation of unlicensed firearms is tantamount to denying criminal elements the opportunity to use them.
“This is why we encourage the public to continue reporting suspicious activities,” said Tuaño.
“The PNP assures the public that it remains firm and consistent in enforcing the law, further strengthening proactive operations against criminality and illegal firearms manufacturing across the country,” he added.