General Luna, Surigao del Norte – November 2, 2023
In a swift operation aligned with holiday security measures, the General Luna Municipal Police Station (MPS) arrested four individuals yesterday, November 1, for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The operation was launched as part of intensified efforts to maintain public safety and prevent crime during the solemn “Undas” observance.
The Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Director, PCOL Nilo T. Texon, confirmed the identities of the suspects, all hailing from San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. They were identified as a 53-year-old self-employed male, a 46-year-old driver, a 40-year-old single male who is self-employed, and a 22-year-old farmer.
The incident unfolded around 6:30 p.m. when the General Luna MPS received a tip-off from a barangay captain in Barangay Cabitoonan, reporting a group of armed men spotted in the area. Responding promptly, the police operatives arrived on the scene and questioned the group regarding their firearms. However, the suspects were unable to provide any legal documents for the weapons they were carrying, which led to their immediate arrest.
Police seized various firearms and ammunition during the operation, including:
- One Colt .45 caliber pistol (Serial No. 381649)
- One Colt Defender .45 caliber pistol (Serial No. 386273)
- Five magazines for .45 caliber firearms
- Twenty-nine rounds of .45 caliber ammunition
- Two black sling bags, one of which was a CAT brand, while the other was unbranded.
In a statement, PCOL Texon emphasized the significance of the public’s safety, especially during holidays when people gather to honor their departed loved ones. “Securing public safety and preventing crimes related to unregistered firearms are priorities for us. The Surigao del Norte police force is committed to taking risks in ensuring that the community feels safe and protected. We will not allow unauthorized individuals to roam around with firearms, particularly during the solemn days of Undas,” Texon said. He also commended the public for their cooperation and encouraged continued vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
The four suspects, along with the seized firearms, are currently under the custody of the General Luna MPS for further investigation and appropriate legal proceedings. Authorities are calling on the public to report any additional information that could assist in preventing similar incidents, reaffirming their commitment to a peaceful and secure observance of the Undas holidays.
