A 19-year-old man was arrested after being found in possession of an undocumented firearm and ammunition during an intensified checkpoint operation conducted by Cotabato City Police Station 3 in Barangay Tamontaka on September 25, 2024.
The suspect, identified by the alias “Baby Lags,” is a resident of Sausa Street, Barangay RH13, Cotabato City. Police Captain Rustan Deaño, Station Commander of Cotabato City Police Station 3, confirmed the arrest, which took place around 11:00 PM when officers stopped the suspect during a routine checkpoint.
Authorities seized a 9mm caliber pistol with serial number K16928, along with a magazine and 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The suspect was also found carrying a Mission Order No. DI06, and a Yamaha NMAX155 motorcycle was confiscated during the operation.
The suspect will face charges for violating Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Police Colonel Joel Estaris, City Director of the Cotabato City Police Office, emphasized that the arrest was part of the ongoing Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO) aimed at curbing the rising crime rate in the city. He also commended his team for their continued efforts in maintaining peace and order.
“This arrest is a significant step toward ensuring public safety and upholding the law in Cotabato City. We will continue to intensify our operations to combat criminality,” Col. Estaris stated.
