MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — Government security forces recovered a cache of high-powered firearms, ammunition, and military paraphernalia from an abandoned vehicle following a hot pursuit and clearing operation in Barangay Curahab, authorities said.
The operation was conducted on March 8 by joint elements of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police, specifically troops from the 51st Infantry Battalion of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division together with personnel of the Malabang Municipal Police Station.
Authorities launched the operation after receiving reports of indiscriminate firing in the area. Responding troops immediately conducted pursuit and clearing operations in nearby areas to prevent further threats to residents.
During the sweep, soldiers and police discovered an unattended minivan bearing plate number KBF 8095 parked in the area. The vehicle reportedly had no registration documents or proof of ownership.
Upon inspection, authorities found a large cache of firearms and ammunition inside the vehicle.
Cache of firearms recovered
Security forces recovered the following items from the vehicle:
- One modified Smith & Wesson Carbine
- Four M16A1 rifles, including one fitted with an M203 grenade launcher
- One M14 rifle
- One Bushmaster carbine
- Four M14 magazines loaded with 29 rounds
- Twelve 20-round M16 magazines
- Thirty-two 30-round M16 magazines
- Twenty-five empty 5.56mm shells
- 493 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition
- 18 high-explosive 40mm rounds for the M203 grenade launcher
- Seven assorted bandoleers and tactical rigs
Authorities said the quantity of firearms and ammunition recovered indicates that the weapons could have been intended for armed operations by lawless elements.
All seized firearms and related evidence are currently undergoing documentation and proper marking procedures before being turned over to the PNP Crime Laboratory in Marawi City for ballistic examination and further investigation.
Army: quick response prevented possible violence
Brig. Gen. Yasser R. Bara, commander of the 101st Infantry Brigade, credited the swift coordination between the Army and police for the successful recovery.
“This successful recovery is a direct result of the swift coordination and professionalism of our troops and the PNP. Their timely response prevented these firearms from being used to threaten our communities,” Bara said.
He emphasized that the military remains vigilant in maintaining peace and order, particularly during the observance of the Ramadan.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure a peaceful and secure environment, especially during this Holy Month of Ramadan. Every firearm taken out of the hands of lawless elements is a step toward lasting peace,” he added.
Investigation ongoing
Authorities are now conducting follow-up investigations to determine the owner of the abandoned vehicle and to identify individuals responsible for both the weapons cache and the earlier indiscriminate firing incident.
Security officials also urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
“Together, we can safeguard our communities and uphold the rule of law,” Bara said.