WAO, Lanao del Sur — Authorities apprehended three individuals during a late-night checkpoint operation in Barangay Katutungan, Wao, Lanao del Sur, on July 7, 2025, for alleged violations of laws on firearms and illegal drugs.
Personnel of the 3rd Platoon, 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (LDSPPO), under the supervision of PCPT Sirad C. Dimalna Jr., in coordination with the Wao Municipal Police Station led by PLTCOL Josue O. Delos Reyes Jr., flagged down a Mitsubishi Canter truck with plate number MAZ 3239 along the national highway at around 11:00 PM.
Authorities identified the suspects as Rejun, 30, a farmer from Barangay Pantar, Banisilan, North Cotabato; Benjie, 30, of Barangay New Paradise, Banisilan; and Basir, 47, of Barangay Barira-Barira, Barira, Maguindanao del Norte.
According to police, one of the male passengers was seen holding a long firearm and wearing a bandolier. When asked to present documents proving legal ownership or government affiliation, the individual failed to produce any, prompting officers to conduct a full search of the vehicle. The search, carried out in the presence of barangay officials and local media, resulted in the confiscation of several illegal items.
Seized from the suspects were:
- One M14 rifle with magazines
- Several rounds of 7.62mm and .45 caliber live ammunition
- A bandolier
- Approximately 2 grams of suspected shabu, valued at ₱13,600
- Drug paraphernalia
- Cellphones, sling bags, and cash
The suspects were informed of their constitutional rights in a language they understood and were brought to Wao District Hospital for medical examination. All recovered items were turned over to Wao MPS for documentation.
Charges are being prepared for violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
Police officials lauded the success of the checkpoint operation, reaffirming their commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs and unlicensed firearms in Lanao del Sur.