Panglima Estino, Sulu — A swift and coordinated law enforcement operation backed by the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade led to the arrest of an armed suspect and the recovery of a caliber .45 pistol in Barangay Kamih Pungod on February 16, 2026.
Authorities said the operation was launched following a report that the suspect had allegedly fired a gun at a civilian earlier that morning, raising serious concerns over public safety and the risk of further violence in the community.
To prevent escalation, troops from the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion immediately coordinated with the Panglima Estino Municipal Police Station to carry out a lawful and well-planned response.
By around 3:00 p.m., joint operatives successfully located and apprehended the suspect. The .45 caliber pistol in his possession was seized and later turned over to the police for proper documentation, investigation, and legal disposition.
Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of the 21st Infantry Battalion, credited the operation’s success to close coordination and timely intelligence sharing between the military and police.
“The swift and peaceful outcome of this operation reflects the strong partnership between the Army and the PNP. Through shared information and unified action, we were able to respond effectively while ensuring that due process and public safety were upheld,” Borras said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, emphasized that the arrest forms part of sustained efforts to curb armed violence and the proliferation of loose firearms in the province.
“This operation demonstrates our firm commitment to enforcing the rule of law, preventing criminal activity, and protecting civilians across the 2nd District of Sulu,” Delos Santos said. “We will continue to work with our partners to ensure communities remain safe and secure.”
Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, also commended the joint forces for their professionalism and efficiency.
Peña stressed that strong collaboration among security forces, local officials, and community members remains vital in maintaining peace and stability in Sulu.
“The success of this operation shows that when the military, police, and the public work together, we can effectively prevent violence and uphold the rule of law,” he said.
Authorities are now conducting further investigation to determine the suspect’s motive and possible involvement in other criminal activities. Appropriate charges are expected to be filed in accordance with existing laws on illegal possession and use of firearms.
The operation underscores the continuing Army–PNP partnership in safeguarding communities and strengthening peace and order in Panglima Estino and throughout the province of Sulu.