THE Naval Forces Central has arrested 13 people, mostly farmers, and recovered high-powered firearms in separate operations in hinterland villages in Cebu City Thursday dawn, October 17, 2019.
The operations were conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Central Command through the Naval Forces Central and Cebu City police.
Authorities believe the firearms were left by communist terrorist groups during the 1980s and early 2000s.
Among those seized were 13 high-powered firearms, 17 assorted pistols and revolvers, assorted ammunition and magazines.
Arrested were 13 persons but they were eventually released from custody.
The arrested persons were brought to the CMFC Forward Patrol Base in Barangay Pungol, Cebu City for questioning and further investigation.
All the unlicensed firearms were turned over to the CMFC and Cebu City Police Office armory for custody and safekeeping prior to their turnover to the Regional Crime Laboratory.
The Central Command through the Naval Forces Central said it will continue its intensified efforts against groups that threaten the safety and security of the Visayas.
"We will continue establishing strong partnerships with our partners and stakeholders in the region," it said in a press release. (LMY/SunStar Philippines)