MARAGAM, Bukidnon — A 30-year-old man was arrested after he allegedly attempted to sell an unlicensed firearm to an undercover police operative during an anti-criminality operation in Purok 2, Barangay South Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon on June 19, 2026.
The suspect, identified only by his alias “Jay-ar,” was apprehended at around 11:03 a.m. after police successfully carried out an operation targeting the illegal sale of firearms in the area.
Authorities said the suspect unknowingly transacted with a police officer posing as a buyer, leading to his immediate arrest. Seized during the operation were a caliber .45 pistol, one magazine, five live rounds of ammunition, P13,000 in cash, a cellular phone, and a sling bag.
Police said the operation forms part of the intensified campaign against loose firearms being implemented under the directive of Bukidnon Provincial Director PCOL Oliver Sotto Navales. The campaign aims to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and prevent their use in criminal activities across the province.
Investigators are also looking into the source of the confiscated firearm and whether the suspect may be linked to a broader network involved in the illegal trade of weapons.
Following his arrest, Jay-ar was taken to the Maramag Detention Facility, where he remains under police custody pending the filing of charges.
The suspect is set to face charges for violating Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which penalizes the unlawful possession, sale, manufacture, and distribution of firearms and ammunition.
Authorities reiterated their appeal to the public to report individuals involved in the illegal possession and trading of firearms, stressing that community cooperation remains crucial in maintaining peace and security in Bukidnon.