Police Shut Down Illegal Gun Factory in Danao City, Seize Manufacturing Tools
In a significant crackdown on illicit activities, police forces successfully dismantled an illegal gun-manufacturing site in Danao City, Central Visayas, on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The operation, conducted in Sitio Manghilao, Barangay Masaba, resulted in the seizure of various tools and materials used for firearm production, marking a critical step in regional efforts to curb the proliferation of loose firearms.
Coordinated Operation Under 'Bakal ng Pagbabago' Program
The raid was executed by the 701st Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 7, in close coordination with the Danao City Police Station. This initiative is part of the intensified monitoring framework under the 'Bakal ng Pagbabago: From Guns to Gifts, Turning Metals into Meaning' program, spearheaded by Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of police in Central Visayas. The program specifically targets illegal gun-manufacturing activities among residents of Danao City, aiming to transform communities by reducing firearm-related crimes.
Seized Items and Ongoing Documentation
During the operation, authorities confiscated a wide array of tools essential for firearm assembly. The seized items include:
- An electric push drill
- Bench vices
- Steel files
- Metal frame patterns
- A hacksaw with blades
- Hammers
- A steel magazine
- An unfinished upper receiver
- Several rounds of ammunition
All confiscated materials are now under the custody of the 701st Maneuver Company, RMFB7, where they are undergoing proper documentation and analysis to support further investigations and legal proceedings.
Commitment to Combating Loose Firearms
Police Brigadier General Maranan emphasized the unwavering commitment of the Central Visayas police to strengthen the campaign against the manufacture of loose firearms across Region 7. 'We remain dedicated to eradicating these illegal operations to ensure public safety and security,' Maranan stated. He also highlighted the crucial role of local partnerships, expressing sincere appreciation to the local government unit of Danao City and the barangay officials of Masaba for their collaboration and cooperation.
'Their partnership with the police is vital in sustaining the gains of the Bakal ng Pagbabago program and ensuring that illegal gun-making activities will no longer thrive in their communities,' he added. Since assuming his post as chief of the Police Regional Office 7, Maranan has prioritized efforts to address the problem of loose firearms in Cebu, directing police units to intensify operations against illegal gun makers, with a particular focus on those operating in Danao City.
