Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte — In a decisive move to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) successfully arrested an alleged illegal gun dealer and confiscated two high-powered rifles in an operation in Barangay Bayanga Norte, Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte on November 14, 2025.
The entrapment operation, conducted from 11:20 AM to 4:00 PM, was a joint effort of CIDG Cotabato City Field Unit, CIDG Regional Field Unit BAR – Special Operations Team, CIDG Maguindanao Provincial Field Unit, Regional Intelligence Unit BAR, the PNP Special Action Force, and the Police Regional Office BAR.
The suspect, identified only as Halid, 46, a resident of Brgy. Bayanga Norte, was arrested for allegedly selling a M14 rifle and a M16 rifle without proper authorization or license. Authorities emphasized that these firearms are considered high-powered and highly regulated, making their illegal circulation a serious threat to public safety.
Acting CIDG Director PMGEN Robert AA Morico II commended the law enforcement teams involved, noting that the successful seizure “underscores [their] unyielding stand against loose firearms.” He added, “With this, we get rid of instruments of killing and violence, thereby preventing crimes.”
The operation aligns with the nationwide campaign against loose firearms spearheaded by Acting PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., under the CIDG’s Oplan Paglalansag Omega initiative. PMGEN Morico II reiterated the agency’s resolve, stating, “The CIDG is relentless. The CIDG means business.”
This arrest and seizure mark another step in the government’s intensified drive to enforce the law and prevent armed criminality across the country.