THE Philippine National Police (PNP), under the direction of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., arrested three male suspects and recovered five illegal firearms, a fragmentation grenade, and various ammunition during synchronized operations across the Visayas from September 1 to 3, 2026.
In Samar, joint elements of Regional Task Force “KAMURAYAW,” the Samar Provincial Intelligence Unit, the 1st Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the Sta. Margarita Municipal Police Station executed a search warrant in Barangay Mabuhay, Sta. Margarita, on September 1.
The raid led to the arrest of a 38-year-old barangay chairman identified by the alias “Naldo.” Authorities recovered a .45-caliber pistol loaded with 13 live rounds and an M16 rifle with a defaced serial number accompanied by 20 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.
The suspect failed to produce lawful ownership documents, violating Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
In Iloilo, law enforcement officers from Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) units and local police served a search warrant in Barangay Jibolo, Janiuay, on September 2.
The operation resulted in the apprehension of a male suspect and the seizure of a .45-caliber pistol, a .38-caliber revolver, a homemade 12-gauge shotgun, magazines, and live rounds.
A third operation took place on September 3 in Barangay Banica, Roxas City, Capiz.
Operatives from the CIDG Capiz Provincial Field Unit and local intelligence teams conducted a buy-bust operation, arresting another male suspect while confiscating a .45-caliber pistol, a fragmentation grenade, and additional ammunition.
None of the suspects possessed valid permits or licenses, and the firearms were unregistered with the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office.
All suspects and evidence were taken into custody for formal documentation and legal proceedings.
PNP Chief Nartatez reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to removing loose firearms from communities to prevent violent crimes and ensure public safety.
