TACURONG CITY, Sultan Kudarat — Authorities intensified security operations in Sultan Kudarat after police arrested a man during a random mobile checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Barangay San Pablo, Tacurong City, in the early hours of Monday, May 18, 2026.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the 1st Sultan Kudarat Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st SKPMFC) under the leadership of newly designated Force Commander PLTCOL Manuel Ryan P. Lim.
According to police reports, operatives flagged down and inspected a Honda XRM 125 motorcycle during the checkpoint operation. During the inspection, authorities recovered an Armscor .45-caliber pistol, one magazine, and eight rounds of live ammunition from the possession of the driver.
The suspect reportedly presented a Philippine National Police firearm license card. However, verification by authorities revealed that the license had already expired on April 7, 2016. Investigators also discovered that the individual had no valid Permit to Carry Firearm Outside of Residence (PTCFOR), prompting police to immediately place him under arrest for alleged violation of firearm regulations.
Police said the suspect was informed of his constitutional rights under the Miranda Doctrine before being taken into custody.
The arrested individual, along with the confiscated firearm and ammunition, was brought to the Tacurong City Police Station for proper disposition and further investigation.
Authorities also confirmed that the recovered firearm will undergo ballistic examination at the Forensic Unit to determine whether it had been used in previous crimes or may be linked to unsolved shooting incidents in the region.
The latest arrest forms part of the continuing intensified security measures being implemented by police authorities in Sultan Kudarat aimed at curbing the proliferation of loose firearms and preventing criminal activities across the province.
Police officials reiterated their call for firearm owners to ensure that their licenses and permits remain valid and updated, warning that violators of firearm laws will face appropriate criminal charges.