BALABAGAN, Lanao del Sur (July 13, 2025) — A 46-year-old man was arrested on Sunday morning for illegal possession of a firearm during a checkpoint operation conducted by the Balabagan Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Barangay Barorao.
The operation, carried out at around 10:15 AM, led to the discovery of a loaded caliber .45 pistol with four additional rounds of ammunition in the suspect’s possession. Authorities reported that the individual failed to present any legal documents or license authorizing him to carry the firearm, in violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The confiscated firearm was immediately turned over to the Provincial Forensic Unit–Lanao del Sur for ballistic testing. Concurrently, verification of the firearm’s ownership is being undertaken by the Regional Civil Security Unit–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (RCSU-BAR).
Police Regional Office–BAR (PRO BAR) Regional Director PBGen Jaysen de Guzman emphasized the ongoing campaign against the proliferation of illegal firearms in the region.
“PRO BAR remains committed to its campaign against illegal firearms, intensifying efforts to confiscate loose firearms, conduct regular inspections, and implement strict regulations to ensure public safety and reduce gun-related violence,” De Guzman said.
The suspect is now undergoing booking procedures, and formal charges are expected to be filed.