AUTHORITIES last week arrested a barangay official and a businessman who are believed to be involved in gun for hire activities in Kalinga province and nearby areas.
Joint personnel from the Police Regional Office – Cordillera (PRO-Cor), Criminal Investigation and Detention Group – Cordillera, and Regional Intelligence Unit arrested Reynold Flores, a barangay secretary of Bulanao, in Tabuk City; businessman Santos Wacnang and Midel Basilio Andiso, 37, caretaker of the house of Virgilio Gunnawa.
The three were arrested following the search warrants issued by Judge Reynaldo Alhambra of Manila Regional Trial Court branch 53 for violation of the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition.
Bulanao barangay chairman Virgilio Gunnawa, who is allegedly involved in illegal activities and was numerously a subject of complaints by concerned citizens and also the subject of the operation was not around during the search.
Seized during the operation were three M-16m one Cal. 30, one Cal. 45, one Cal. 38; one cal. 22 converted rifle, one Cal. 22 air rifle, 270 assorted ammunitions, two rifle grenades, one hand grenade, 10 assorted magazines for M16, Cal. 45 and Cal. 30.
Records reveal the suspects were all involved in gun for hire activities and illegal gambling in Kalinga.
Meanwhile, PRO-Cor Acting Regional Director PCSUPT Elmo Francis Sarona commended the personnel who conducted the operation having displayed commitment and dedication in the performance of their duty worthy of emulation.
“All police commanders are ordered to intensify the campaign against loose firearms in their respective areas of jurisdiction to ensure peace and order,” said Sarona citing the problem on loose firearms is not only true here in the region but proliferating all over the country.
PRO-COR is also eyeing to account more unregistered guns now deemed as loose firearms for failure of their owners to update or renew their gun licenses.