Tubod, Lanao del Norte — Swift police response led to the arrest of an armed suspect shortly after midnight on Tuesday, following a report from a vigilant community member in Barangay Poblacion.
According to the Sultan Naga Dimaporo Municipal Police Station (SND MPS), officers received a tip at around 12:10 AM from a Barangay Peace and Action Team (BPAT) member about a man allegedly carrying a firearm and hiding it inside a brown leather sling bag. Acting on the information, police personnel immediately conducted a verification and soon spotted a man fitting the description along the national highway in Purok 1.
When officers approached, the suspect attempted to escape, triggering a brief hot pursuit. He was apprehended around 12:30 AM.
The suspect, a 25-year-old jobless male currently residing in Barangay Sugod, was found carrying a Colt MK IV Series 80 caliber .45 pistol (Serial No. 912877), one steel magazine loaded with four live rounds, and various tools including a knife, screwdrivers, a wrench, pliers, and scissors.
Police conducted an on-site inventory and marking of the confiscated items in the presence of the suspect and a barangay official. Both the suspect and the seized evidence are now under the custody of SND MPS for documentation and further legal action.
PCOL Leo De Leon Sua, Acting Provincial Director of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, lauded the quick coordination between the police and the community.
“The timely report from our community partners and the rapid response of our police personnel were crucial in ensuring the suspect’s arrest,” he said. “This incident highlights the importance of strong police-community collaboration in maintaining peace and order. The Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the public and enforcing the law with professionalism and dedication.”
The suspect is facing charges for violating Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.