A man was arrested after authorities discovered an unlicensed firearm in his possession during an intelligence-driven checkpoint operation conducted by police in Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur on Saturday afternoon, March 14.
According to a report from the Rajah Buayan Municipal Police Station (RBMPS), the operation took place at around 1:30 p.m. along a checkpoint in Barangay Baital as part of intensified security and law enforcement measures in the area.
Town police chief Police Captain Joel Lebrilla said the suspect was intercepted during a spot checkpoint established based on intelligence information. Upon inspection, operatives recovered an Armscor caliber .45 pistol bearing serial number 25371 from the suspect.
Authorities also seized one magazine loaded with four rounds of ammunition.
Police immediately arrested the suspect after he failed to present any legal documents authorizing him to possess or carry the firearm.
The suspect is now under the custody of the Rajah Buayan Municipal Police Station and is facing charges for violation of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which penalizes the illegal possession and carrying of firearms.
Meanwhile, the confiscated firearm and ammunition will be turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for ballistic examination to determine whether the weapon had been used in previous criminal activities.
Police authorities reiterated their call for the public to strictly comply with firearms regulations and to cooperate with law enforcement efforts, noting that checkpoint operations remain a key strategy in preventing the proliferation of loose firearms and maintaining peace and order in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring areas.