KABACAN, COTABATO — Two men were arrested during an anti-carnapping and traffic enforcement operation in Kabacan, Cotabato, after police allegedly discovered two firearms in their possession, authorities said.
Arrested were alias “Poldo,” 20, single, a farmer, and alias “Waren,” 27, married, also a farmer. Both are residents of Barangay Barongis, Pikit, Cotabato. The two are facing an alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The operation took place at about 10:40 p.m. on September 30, 2026, along the National Highway in Poblacion, Kabacan. Personnel of the Kabacan Municipal Police Station and the Regional Highway Patrol Unit 12 of the Northern Central Mindanao Highway Patrol Team (NCPHPT) were conducting anti-carnapping operations while enforcing traffic regulations when they flagged down a white Suzuki minivan for an alleged seatbelt violation.
During the encounter, police allegedly saw alias “Poldo” carrying a .45-caliber firearm tucked into his waist. This prompted the operating personnel to take him into custody.
A subsequent lawful search of the Suzuki minivan reportedly led to the recovery of another firearm, identified as a 9mm-caliber pistol. Both suspects, along with the recovered firearms, were brought to the Kabacan Municipal Police Station for documentation and the appropriate legal proceedings.
Police authorities said the operation highlights the importance of combining traffic enforcement with efforts to prevent crimes involving firearms and vehicles, particularly along major highways where police visibility and enforcement are critical.
PBGen Alan B. Manibog, Regional Director of the Police Regional Office 12, reiterated the importance of responsible firearms ownership and strict compliance with firearms laws.
“Walang puwang ang iligal na pagdadala ng baril. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang pagpapatupad ng batas upang mapanatili ang kaligtasan at kapayapaan ng ating mga komunidad.”
The suspects remain entitled to due process, and the allegations against them will be subject to the appropriate investigation and legal proceedings.