DATU PIANG, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR — In a late-night checkpoint operation on July 14, 2025, police operatives from Datu Piang Municipal Police Station arrested two men for illegal possession of firearms and suspected shabu valued at over ₱176,000.
The suspects, identified only by their aliases “Ziamer” and “Benjie,” were intercepted at around 11:55 p.m. in Barangay Kanguan while riding a motorcycle. The operation, led by PCPT Anthony A. Basanes, Acting Chief of Police, was part of a routine checkpoint when officers noticed a firearm partially exposed from one of the suspects’ waistbands.
A subsequent search led to the confiscation of a .45 caliber pistol (STI International, Austin Texas, USA), four live rounds of ammunition, a magazine, two improvised drug tooters, and approximately 25.9 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of ₱176,000.
Both suspects were arrested for violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
PCOL Sultan Salman H. Sapal, Provincial Director of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, lauded the swift and efficient action of Datu Piang police, saying, “With our mantra ‘Walang Matutulog na Pulis Hanggat Hindi Natutulog ang Mamamayan,’ this operation serves as a clear message to all lawless elements: we will continue our relentless pursuit to rid our communities of crime.”
He also urged the public to remain vigilant and supportive of law enforcement efforts, adding, “Together, let us build a safer, more secured Maguindanao del Sur.”
The suspects are currently in police custody, and appropriate charges are being prepared for filing.