Police and military forces recovered on Wednesday, Dec. 17, a cache of firearms in Labo, Camarines Norte in a joint operation that stemmed from intelligence reports of the hidden high-powered firearms in the area.
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), aid among those seized in Barangay Exciban were 15 M16A1 rifles; one M14 rifles; two M653 rifles; a shotgun; and, three units of improvised explosive device (IED).
“The confiscation of these high-powered guns is a big boost to our efforts to account for loose firearms in the country. Just imagine if these firearms would fall into the wrong hands” said Nartatez.
“I commend both the police and military personnel behind this successful operation. This is a product of an intelligence-driven operation and efficient interoperability with our counterparts in the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he added.
Nartatez said they are now conducting an investigation to determine the identities of those who could be held liable, as he disclosed that they will be preparing criminal charges against all those involved.
“Firearms are one of the main instruments in criminal activities so we really have to step up our efforts to account for all of these as part of our efforts to keep all our kababayan, and all our communities safe,” said Nartatez.
He then urged the public to exercise continued vigilance and cooperation to keep communities safe.
Aside from strategic operations, Nartatez emphasized the importance of police visibility and quick response in crime prevention measures.