LAMITAN CITY, BASILAN — A coordinated law enforcement operation led to the arrest of the province’s Top 2 Most Wanted Person and the recovery of a high-powered firearm and ammunition during an early morning operation on June 13, 2026 in Lamitan City.
Authorities identified the arrested suspect as Mahdi Amansa y Alabain, 30, who is facing a murder charge under Criminal Case No. 9454. The warrant of arrest was issued by Judge Verna Kate B. Santos of the Regional Trial Court Branch 2 in Isabela City, with no bail recommended.
The operation was conducted in Barangay Parangbasak through the coordinated efforts of the Lamitan City Police Station, led by PLTCOL Elmer P. Solon, together with personnel from the PNP Special Action Force, the Basilan Police Provincial Office, the Regional Mobile Force Battalion, and the 1st Basilan Provincial Mobile Force Company under the Philippine National Police.
During the arrest, operatives also recovered one M16A1 Armalite rifle (5.56mm), loaded magazines, and assorted ammunition. Police said the recovery of the firearm prompted the filing of an additional case for violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
PLTCOL Solon praised the successful operation, emphasizing the importance of inter-unit coordination in neutralizing high-risk fugitives and removing loose firearms from circulation.
“This operation demonstrates our strong coordination and firm commitment to the rule of law. We will continue pursuing wanted persons and confiscating illegal firearms to ensure the safety of our communities,” Solon said.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect was properly informed of his constitutional rights in a language he understands before being transported to the police station for documentation and medical examination. He remains in police custody pending turnover to the issuing court.
Law enforcement officials said the arrest is part of ongoing intensified operations against high-value targets and illegal firearms in Basilan, aimed at strengthening peace and security in the province.