OPOL, Misamis Oriental — Six individuals, including two active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), were arrested in a checkpoint operation after authorities intercepted a vehicle transporting suspected mineral ores without proper permits, police said.
The operation took place at around 5:59 p.m. on April 27, 2026, at a routine checkpoint in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Limonda, Opol. Joint operatives from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB-10), Opol Municipal Police Station, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, Provincial Intelligence Unit of Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office, as well as Regional Investigation and Detection Group (RIDG-10) and Regional Intelligence Division (RID-10), conducted the operation.
Authorities flagged down a white Isuzu L300 van bearing plate number MAZ 7819 after noticing in plain view several sacks loaded behind the passenger seat. Upon inspection, the sacks were found to contain suspected unprocessed mineral ores.
The vehicle’s occupants failed to present any documents authorizing the transport of the minerals, prompting their immediate arrest for violation of Republic Act No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Arrested were two police personnel identified only by their ranks: a Police Senior Master Sergeant (47), and a Police Staff Sergeant (37), both assigned in Davao de Oro and residents of Monkayo town. Four civilians were also apprehended, identified as Regine, 46, of Tambulig, Zamboanga del Sur; Nerie Jr., 33, and Jesson, 32, both residents of Nabunturan, Davao de Oro; and Francisco Jr., 46, of Bislig City.
Seized during the operation were 58 sacks of suspected mineral ores with an estimated value of ₱290,000; the Isuzu L300 vehicle reportedly owned by a certain Enrico from Toril, Davao City; two Glock 17 Gen4 pistols; four magazines; 60 rounds of 9mm live ammunition; six mobile phones; and a jackhammer believed to be used in the illegal activity.
An inventory of the confiscated items was conducted on-site by the seizing officer in the presence of a deputized representative from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and was documented using alternative recording devices.
The suspects were informed of their constitutional rights and are currently detained at the Opol Municipal Police Station pending proper disposition. The seized mineral ores and vehicle will be turned over to the MGB-DENR for further examination and appropriate action.
The PNP said a thorough investigation is underway, particularly concerning the involvement of the two active police personnel. Administrative charges are set to be filed, and command responsibility will be applied to determine the accountability of their superiors.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. underscored the organization’s commitment to internal discipline and accountability.
“Walang puwang sa PNP ang sinumang lalabag sa batas. Walang kinikilingan—kahit pulis, mananagot. We will ensure swift and decisive action against those involved,” Nartatez said.
Authorities continue to investigate the origin and intended destination of the seized mineral ores, as well as the possible involvement of other individuals in the illegal transport operation.