ZAMBOANGA CITY – A joint police operation in Zamboanga City resulted in the arrest of a suspect known by the alias “Tanggol” after authorities allegedly recovered an unlicensed firearm and suspected illegal drugs during the implementation of a search warrant in Barangay Tagasilay.
The operation was carried out by personnel of Police Station 1 Vitali in coordination with the 1st Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company (1st ZCMFC). The search warrant was served in Sangali Jutay, Barangay Tagasilay, where the suspect was apprehended without reported incident.
According to initial police reports, alias “Tanggol,” a resident of the area, was arrested after law enforcers discovered and confiscated a pistol believed to be illegally possessed, along with suspected illegal drugs found during the search.
The suspect is facing charges for Violation of Republic Act No. 10591, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, particularly for the alleged illegal possession of a firearm. Authorities are also expected to file appropriate charges under Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, following the seizure of the suspected illegal drugs.
Police have yet to disclose the caliber of the confiscated firearm, the quantity and estimated value of the seized illegal drugs, or whether the suspect has any previous criminal record.
The confiscated firearm and suspected narcotics have been turned over to the appropriate police units for documentation, inventory, and forensic examination, while the arrested suspect remains in police custody pending the filing of formal charges.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations against the proliferation of illegal firearms and dangerous drugs, emphasizing that coordinated law enforcement efforts remain vital in maintaining peace and order in communities across Zamboanga City.
Further investigation is underway to determine the origin of the firearm and the possible source or network behind the recovered illegal drugs. Police have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges should further evidence emerge from the ongoing investigation.