BUUG, Zamboanga Sibugay — A major operation against illegal firearms led to the arrest of a suspect and the seizure of an arsenal of high-powered weapons and ammunition in Barangay Poblacion, Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay, as police intensified efforts to curb the proliferation of loose firearms in the province.
The operation, conducted at around 12:45 p.m. on June 23, 2026, was carried out through the implementation of a search warrant for violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The search was spearheaded by the Buug Municipal Police Station and supported by personnel from the Provincial Intelligence Unit and Regional Special Operations Unit 9 (PIU/RSOU9), Regional Intelligence Division of Police Regional Office 9 (RID PRO9), the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office (ZSBPPO), and intelligence operatives from the 106th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
Authorities discovered and confiscated an assortment of firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories believed to have been illegally possessed by the suspect. Among the weapons recovered were an M1 Garand rifle, a Thompson Submachine Gun caliber .45, an M1 Carbine rifle, two Ithaca caliber .45 pistols, and a Llama caliber .22 pistol.
Also seized during the operation were several magazines, rifle accessories, ammunition clips, and numerous live rounds of different calibers.
Police described the confiscated firearms as significant evidence that could prove crucial in ongoing investigations, particularly in determining whether the weapons had been used in previous criminal activities in the region.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been disclosed by authorities, is currently under the custody of the Buug Municipal Police Station while documentation and the filing of appropriate criminal charges are being completed.
Investigators have also ordered the submission of all recovered firearms and ammunition to the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Forensic Unit for comprehensive ballistic examination and gunpowder residue testing. The forensic analysis aims to establish possible links between the seized weapons and unresolved crimes or armed incidents in the province and neighboring areas.
Police officials emphasized that the successful operation reflects the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven law enforcement efforts against illegal firearms, which remain a major concern due to their potential use in violent crimes, armed conflicts, and other threats to public safety.
The Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office reiterated its commitment to aggressively pursue individuals involved in the illegal possession and proliferation of firearms, stressing that such operations are essential in maintaining peace and order throughout the province.
Authorities likewise urged the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious activities and individuals involved in illegal weapons possession.
The latest firearms haul underscores the Philippine National Police’s continuing campaign against loose firearms and criminality, a key component of its strategy to ensure safer communities and protect residents from violence and lawlessness.
Police officials said similar intelligence-based operations will continue across Zamboanga Sibugay as part of ongoing efforts to create a more secure environment for all Sibugaynons.