KIDAPAWAN CITY — A young couple was arrested by police on the morning of April 25, 2026, after allegedly trespassing on a private property in Suerte Subdivision, Barangay Sudapin, an incident that led to the discovery of an unlicensed firearm in their possession.
The arrest was prompted by a complaint from property owner Wilma Gulihing, who reported that the couple had entered her lot without permission. According to her account, the pair appeared to be using the area as a place to meet, prompting her to immediately seek police assistance.
Responding officers from the Kidapawan City Police quickly arrived at the scene around 8:00 a.m., where they confronted the suspects. During the inspection, authorities recovered a 9mm pistol, a magazine, and six rounds of ammunition concealed inside a black sling bag. Also found among their belongings were personal items, including a hammock.
The male suspect was identified as Kenth Zeasar Apura Embacanan, 18, a resident of the same subdivision. His companion, identified only as “Lorie,” is a 17-year-old minor from Barangay Birada, also within Kidapawan City.
Embacanan now faces charges for violating Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which penalizes the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. He is currently detained at the Kidapawan City Police Station pending the filing of formal charges.
Meanwhile, the minor has been turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) for proper intervention and assistance in accordance with laws protecting children in conflict with the law.
Police authorities emphasized that beyond the initial trespassing complaint, the discovery of the firearm significantly escalated the gravity of the incident, underscoring ongoing concerns over illegal gun possession even among young individuals.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the firearm and whether it may have been used or intended for any criminal activity.