Authorities dismantled a suspected illegal firearms manufacturing site that was also allegedly being used as a drug den during a successful buy-bust operation in Barangay Poblacion, Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur on Friday, May 8, 2026.
The operation was led by the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU) of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) under the leadership of Police Major Vincent Wong, in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), the 3rd Maneuver Platoon of the 2nd PMFC, and the Buluan Municipal Police Station headed by Police Major Amil M. Andungan Jr.
According to police reports, the site had long been under surveillance after authorities received intelligence information that it was being used not only as an illegal gun-making facility but also as a drug den where the selling and use of illegal drugs allegedly took place openly.
During the operation, a police poseur buyer was able to successfully purchase suspected illegal drugs from one of the suspects, triggering the immediate arrest of the individuals involved.
Following the arrest, operatives conducted a search inside the compound and discovered what authorities described as a “crime hub,” uncovering improvised firearms, unfinished locally made guns, and various tools and machines allegedly used in the manufacture of firearms.
Authorities also seized several sachets containing suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia, and other pieces of evidence believed to be connected to illegal drug activities. All confiscated items will undergo forensic and laboratory examination.
Among the evidence recovered were:
- Sachets containing suspected shabu
- Drug paraphernalia
- Improvised firearms and unfinished weapons
- Equipment and machinery used in gun manufacturing
- Other pieces of evidence for forensic examination
The arrested suspects are now under the custody of the Buluan Municipal Police Station and are expected to face charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Police Major Amil M. Andungan Jr. stressed that authorities will continue their crackdown on illegal drugs and loose firearms in the municipality.
“We will not allow these kinds of illegal activities that destroy the future of our youth and threaten the peace and order in Buluan. Our campaign against illegal drugs and loose firearms will continue relentlessly,” Andungan said.
Police Major Vincent Wong, meanwhile, commended the close coordination among the operating units.
“This operation proves that when law enforcement units work together, no criminal can escape the law,” Wong said.
Authorities are now conducting further investigation to determine whether other individuals or groups are connected to the alleged illegal gun-running and drug operation.