GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — A 34-year-old man was arrested by personnel of the Philippine National Police Maritime Group–Regional Maritime Unit 12 (PNP-MG RMU 12) over the alleged illegal sale of firearms ammunition and magazines at Makar Wharf in Barangay Labangal, General Santos City, on August 15, 2026.
The arrest followed information received by the General Santos Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) regarding the alleged illegal sale of ammunition and firearm magazines in the area. Maritime police personnel subsequently conducted an operation that resulted in the apprehension of the suspect.
Authorities reported that various firearm-related items were seized during the operation, including 74 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition and 10 rounds of 9mm ammunition, as well as M16 rifle magazines and other firearm-related items.
The operation focused on the reported unauthorized transaction involving ammunition and firearm components. According to police, the suspect was unable to present the required legal documents authorizing the possession, sale, or lawful disposition of the seized items.
Police said the absence of the necessary documentation prompted the suspect’s arrest for an alleged violation of Section 28 of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The law provides regulatory controls over firearms and ammunition, including acts involving the unlawful acquisition, possession, manufacture, dealing, or disposition of firearms and ammunition, subject to the specific circumstances and applicable provisions of the law.
Following his arrest, the suspect was brought to the General Santos MARPSTA for documentation and processing. The seized ammunition, magazines, and other items were also placed under police custody as part of the investigation.
Authorities said the suspect remained in the custody of the maritime police station while investigators prepared the appropriate complaint for filing before the Office of the City Prosecutor.
The arrest underscores the continuing enforcement of firearms and ammunition regulations in General Santos City, particularly against the unauthorized movement and sale of items that could potentially enter the hands of individuals without the legal authority to possess them.
Police have not disclosed the identity of the suspect pending the filing and evaluation of the appropriate charges.
The allegations against the suspect remain subject to the investigation and prosecutorial process, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.