CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Three individuals were arrested in a joint anti-criminality operation that led to the seizure of an unlicensed firearm and illegal drugs worth nearly a quarter of a million pesos on Thursday, March 26, 2026, police said.
The operation was carried out by the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) City Intelligence Unit (CIU) Tracker Team, in coordination with the Regional Intelligence Division 10 (RID 10) and Regional Intelligence Unit 10 (RIU 10), at Rotonda Circle in Barangay Macasandig.
Authorities identified the suspects only by their aliases: “Anton,” 34, a resident of Punta Bonbon; “Vin,” 24, of Barangay Macabalan; and “JJ,” 24, of Barangay Kauswagan—all residents of this city.
The suspects were apprehended after a police poseur-buyer successfully negotiated and purchased a caliber .38 revolver without a serial number and of unspecified make. This prompted their immediate arrest for violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
During the operation, police also recovered three large sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 35 grams, with an estimated Standard Drug Price (SDP) of ₱238,000. The confiscation of illegal drugs led to additional charges under Section 11 of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Investigators said the suspects were allegedly involved in the theft, delivery, and sale of illegal drugs in the area. Further background checks revealed that “Anton” had a prior conviction related to illegal drugs, while his two companions are considered first-time offenders.
Also seized at the scene were a genuine ₱500 bill used as buy-bust money and a ₱1,000 bill utilized as marked or “boodle” money for the operation.
The confiscated firearm and suspected illegal drugs have been turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit 10 for laboratory examination. Meanwhile, the arrested individuals are currently detained at the custody of the COCPO CIU as authorities prepare the filing of appropriate charges against them.
Police Regional Office 10 Director, PBGen Christopher N. Abrahano, commended the operating units for the successful conduct of the operation, citing their coordination and commitment.
“We commend our personnel for their dedication and seamless coordination. Let this serve as a stern warning to those who continue to engage in unlawful activities—PRO10 remains relentless in its mission to ensure the safety and security of our communities,” Abrahano said.
The police reiterated their call for public cooperation in reporting illegal activities as part of intensified efforts to curb criminality and illegal drug trade in Northern Mindanao.