In a focused operation by the Philippine National Police’s Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), a suspect involved in firearms trafficking was arrested on September 30, 2024, in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur. The arrest was made during a buy-bust operation conducted in coordination with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) units from Maguindanao, Lanao Del Sur, and Cotabato.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Shawie,” was apprehended at the parking area of Dr. Abdullah Hospital Foundation Inc. The arrest was made under the violation of Section 32 of Republic Act 10591, which pertains to the unlawful sale of firearms and ammunition.
According to the Lanao Del Sur Provincial Police Office, operatives from various CIDG units worked together with local police in Marawi City to carry out the operation. The buy-bust resulted in the confiscation of several firearms and ammunition from the suspect, including:
- One caliber 5.56mm rifle with serial number 199205
- One Taurus G3C 9x19mm pistol with serial number AEM 904533
- One 20-round magazine for the 5.56mm rifle
- Six live rounds of 5.56mm ammunition
- Three 9mm caliber magazines
- A Taurus gun case
- One genuine one-thousand peso bill used as marked money
- One hundred twenty-four additional one-thousand peso bills
The inventory of the seized items was carried out with the presence of a local Barangay Kagawad, ensuring transparency and adherence to due process.
Following his arrest, the suspect was informed of his constitutional rights and the provisions of Republic Act 9745, also known as the Anti-Torture Act of 2009, in a language he understood. He, along with the confiscated items, was transported to the CIDG Lanao Del Sur office for documentation and legal proceedings.
Regional Director of PRO BAR, Police Brigadier General Prexy D. Tanggowohn, lauded the efforts of the police units involved, emphasizing the region’s commitment to curbing illegal arms trafficking. He stated that this arrest is a testament to their ongoing efforts to ensure peace and security in the Bangsamoro region.
The successful operation marks another step toward the dismantling of illegal firearms trafficking networks, which have been contributing to violence and unrest in the region. Authorities continue to work diligently to prevent the proliferation of illegal weapons and protect the local communities from further harm.
Further investigations are ongoing to determine if the suspect is connected to a broader firearms trafficking network operating in the region.
