ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities successfully arrested a 35-year-old man and confiscated several high-powered firearms during a buy-bust operation against illegal weapons early morning along Don Alfaro Street, Barangay Tetuan.
The operation, conducted under Oplan Paglalansag Omega, was led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Zamboanga City Field Unit in coordination with the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-9 (RMFB-9) and other law enforcement units. The mission followed several days of surveillance targeting illegal firearms activities in the area.
Arrested during the operation was Eliseo Sinco III y Esic, a resident of Morning Breeze Subdivision in Barangay Tugbungan. Authorities identified Sinco as the subject of the operation after intelligence reports linked him to the illegal possession and possible distribution of firearms.
Seized from the suspect were a M16A1 rifle with a defaced serial number, multiple M16 rifle magazines, and 20 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition. Also recovered were a 9mm pistol with serial number RIA2152510 and its corresponding magazine.
In addition, operatives confiscated ₱200,000 in boodle money used in the entrapment, along with a marked ₱1,000 bill, which served as evidence of the completed transaction.
Barangay Kagawad Neil “Kambal” Mariano, who represented the barangay council during the operation, confirmed the arrest and underscored the importance of coordination between local officials and law enforcement agencies in curbing illegal activities in the community.
The suspect is now under police custody and will face charges for violation of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensify operations against loose firearms, emphasizing that such efforts are crucial in preventing violence and maintaining peace and order in Zamboanga City.