PIGCAWAYAN, Cotabato — A 59-year-old man was arrested after authorities seized illegal drugs, firearms, ammunition, and an explosive device during the implementation of a court-issued search warrant in Barangay Tigbawan, Pigcawayan, Cotabato on Thursday, June 18.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the Pigcawayan Municipal Police Station in coordination with the 2nd Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company (CPMFC) and the Provincial Police Drug Enforcement Unit (PPDEU) under Search Warrant No. 26-016.
Authorities raided the suspect’s residence in Purok Duranta, Barangay Tigbawan, where they discovered a cache of illegal drugs and deadly weapons.
Recovered during the operation were nine sachets containing suspected shabu weighing approximately 3.6 grams with an estimated street value of ₱24,480. Also confiscated were two packs of suspected marijuana, an MK2 fragmentation hand grenade, an unnumbered 12-gauge shotgun, a .45 caliber Colt MKIV pistol with a magazine, and several rounds of live ammunition.
Police said the seized items were properly inventoried and marked at the scene in the presence of the required witnesses, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and preserving the integrity of the evidence for prosecution.
The suspect is now under police custody and is expected to face multiple charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession of an explosive device.
The operation forms part of the intensified campaign of law enforcement authorities against illegal drugs and loose firearms, which remain major security concerns in several parts of Cotabato Province.
Cotabato Police Provincial Office (CPPO) Director Police Colonel Ramel B. Hojilla lauded the operating units for the successful implementation of the search warrant and the significant recovery of contraband.
“The successful confiscation of illegal drugs, firearms, and explosives sends a clear message that the CPPO will not stop in its fight against criminality. We will continue to intensify our operations to maintain peace, security, and the protection of every resident of Cotabato Province,” Hojilla said.
Authorities emphasized that the operation highlights the continuing efforts of the Philippine National Police to dismantle illegal drug networks, prevent the proliferation of loose firearms, and neutralize threats posed by explosive devices that endanger communities.
Investigators are now conducting further inquiries to determine the source of the confiscated drugs and weapons, as well as possible links to other criminal activities in the province.