January 25, 2025 – PCOL Robert S. Daculan, Provincial Director of Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO), commended the officers of Amai Manabilang Municipal Police Station (MPS) and the 3rd Platoon of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) for their exemplary efforts in apprehending a suspect in violation of Republic Act 10591 and the Election Gun Ban.
The arrest occurred during a routine checkpoint operation along the national highway in Barangay Mansilano, Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur, around 2:00 PM. The suspect, a resident of Barangay Dominorog, Talakag, Bukidnon, was driving a black CT 125 Kawasaki motorcycle with a minor as a passenger.
During the inspection, police officers noticed the butt of a firearm and a magazine protruding from the suspect’s open camouflage-colored sling bag. This prompted officers to flag down the vehicle for further inspection. The suspect displayed nervous behavior and, while reaching into his sling bag, revealed a fragmentation grenade. A brief struggle ensued as officers disarmed and secured the grenade, ensuring the safety of all individuals in the vicinity.
The operation led to the recovery of the following items:
- One (1) camouflage-colored sling bag
- One (1) improvised UZI submachine gun with a magazine loaded with eight (8) 9mm live ammunition
- One (1) fragmentation grenade
- One (1) black CT 125 Kawasaki motorcycle
- Other personal belongings
The suspect, along with the confiscated items, is now under the custody of Amai Manabilang MPS. Proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges are currently underway.
PCOL Daculan praised the vigilance and swift actions of the law enforcers, emphasizing the critical role of checkpoint operations in maintaining peace and security during the election period. He also urged the public to remain cooperative and vigilant, underscoring the importance of community partnership in preventing crime and violence.
The arrest highlights the dedication of Lanao del Sur’s police force in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of citizens, especially during sensitive periods such as the ongoing election season.