Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, October 4, 2024 – Operatives of the Sultan Kudarat Police Provincial Office (SKPPO) successfully carried out a search warrant operation early Friday morning, seizing illegal firearms and P54,000 worth of suspected shabu. The operation, conducted at Purok Imbantayan, Barangay Katitisan in Lambayong, was part of the intensified campaign against illegal firearms and drugs in the province.
The raid, which began at approximately 4:54 AM, was conducted by personnel from Lambayong Municipal Police Station (MPS), the 1st SK Provincial Mobile Force Company, SK Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, and SK Provincial Intelligence Unit. The search warrant was issued for a violation of Republic Act 10591, known as the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.”
According to police reports, the target of the operation managed to escape before authorities could apprehend him, fleeing in an unknown direction as police arrived at the scene. However, during the search, law enforcement recovered an M14 rifle with serial number 5148795, along with a steel magazine loaded with four rounds of ammunition. Authorities also found additional ammunition for caliber .45 and .40 firearms, as well as fired cartridge cases.
In a related development, the brother of the primary target was apprehended after being found in possession of a large heat-sealed sachet containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu. The substance, weighing eight grams, has an estimated street value of P54,000. The suspect was taken into custody and is now facing charges for possession of illegal drugs under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165).
The search, seizure, and inventory were conducted in the presence of local barangay officials and a media representative to ensure transparency and proper documentation. The arrested suspect and confiscated items were immediately brought to Lambayong MPS for further investigation and legal processing.
Acting Provincial Director PCOL Bernard L. Lao praised the operatives for their dedication and commitment in intensifying the fight against criminality, particularly illegal drugs and firearms. “This operation demonstrates the commitment of the Sultan Kudarat Police Provincial Office to ensure public safety by taking concrete steps to address illegal firearms and drugs in the province,” said PCOL Lao.
He also reassured the public that efforts are underway to track down and arrest the primary subject who evaded capture during the operation.
The police force vowed to continue its proactive measures to curb criminal activities and ensure peace and order in Sultan Kudarat, with the local community encouraged to cooperate and report any suspicious activities to authorities.
