CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A joint police operation in Quezon, Bukidnon led to the arrest of seven individuals and the confiscation of 15 high-powered firearms on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) reported.
In a press conference at the Bukidnon Provincial Police Office, PRO10 Regional Director PBGen Rolindo M. Suguilon, together with Bukidnon PPO Director PCol Jovit L. Culaway, detailed the operation carried out in Barangay Butong through the implementation of five search warrants against identified suspects.
“This is the result of our intel-driven operation, coordination, and the trust of our communities. I extend my gratitude to the Bukidnon PPO, our intelligence counterparts, and all units involved in this mission,” Suguilon said.
Police reports revealed that the group had allegedly been occupying land illegally, building houses on the property, and threatening the rightful owners with gunfire to prevent eviction. Concerned for their safety, the landowners sought police assistance, prompting the application and execution of search warrants.
Authorities arrested the group’s alleged leader and six other men, while four more suspects remain at large. During the search, police recovered Colt M16 rifles, an M1 Garand rifle, a Bipod Ultimax 100 Mark III Cal. 5.56mm, .45 caliber pistols, ammunition, hand grenades, battle dress uniforms, binoculars, and other paraphernalia.
The suspects reportedly claim to be members of a known armed group linked to various criminal activities and long subject to community complaints. They are now in the custody of the Quezon Municipal Police Station and face charges for violating the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (R.A. 10591) and the Illegal Possession of Explosives Law (R.A. 9516).
Suguilon assured residents that PRO10 will continue its campaign against armed groups and illegal firearms.
“The safety of our people is our top priority. We will sustain our efforts to rid our communities of lawless elements and ensure that every resident can live without fear,” he said.
Authorities reminded the public that possession of unlicensed firearms is prohibited and punishable under the law, urging owners to register their weapons or surrender them to avoid legal consequences.