Norala, South Cotabato — Three individuals were arrested, and a cache of illegal drugs, firearms, and explosives were seized during a police operation in Purok Bliss, Barangay Poblacion, Norala on Tuesday, April 16.
The joint operation, led by personnel from the Norala Municipal Police Station, Provincial Intelligence Unit, and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO), was carried out in coordination with the Regional Intelligence Division 12 and Charlie Company of the 38th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army.
The law enforcement team was serving a search warrant for violations of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, targeting a suspect identified by the alias “Berto,” a 36-year-old, jobless resident of the area.
As police arrived at the residence, the suspect allegedly opened fire, injuring Police Major Jose I. Golez Jr. in the left arm. The operatives quickly retaliated, neutralized the threat, and apprehended the suspect. Major Golez was immediately rushed to Norala District Hospital for medical treatment.
During the clearing of the area, two other individuals were found inside the house and were later identified as alias “Ador,” 36, of Purok San Roque, Barangay Poblacion, Norala, and alias “Mae,” 24, of Purok Food First, Barangay Poblacion, Lake Sebu.
Authorities recovered a .45 caliber pistol with one magazine and five live rounds, a spent cartridge case, two fragmentation grenades, six sachets of suspected shabu weighing 20.8 grams, 1.3 grams of marijuana, and assorted drug paraphernalia.
All three suspects were brought to the Norala Municipal Police Station for processing. Charges will be filed against them for violations of RA 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition), RA 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives), and RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
Police Regional Office-12 Regional Director PBGen Arnold P. Ardiente lauded the bravery of the operating units and reiterated the force’s commitment to eliminating criminal activities and the illegal drug trade in SOCCSKSARGEN.
“Despite the danger posed to our personnel, we remain steadfast in enforcing the law. This successful operation sends a strong message that PRO 12 will not tolerate lawlessness. We will continue to uphold peace and order to ensure a safe SOCCSKSARGEN,” Ardiente said.