Police Intensify Crackdown on Loose Firearms in Siquijor, Arrest Suspect
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has significantly ramped up its efforts to combat the proliferation of loose firearms, resulting in a successful operation that led to the recovery of unlicensed weapons and the apprehension of a suspect in Siquijor. This operation underscores the agency's unwavering commitment to public safety and law enforcement in the region.
Operation Details and Arrest
On February 12, 2026, operatives from the Lazi Municipal Police Station executed a search warrant at a residence in Sitio Bolo-bolo, Barangay Capalasanan, Lazi, Siquijor. The operation targeted a suspect known by the alias "Patet," a 61-year-old resident of the village who works as a swing operator at Cambugahay Falls. The search was conducted under the authority of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which strictly regulates firearm ownership in the Philippines.
During the raid, police recovered a significant cache of firearms and ammunition. The seized items included one caliber .45 pistol, one caliber .45 steel magazine, four pieces of live ammunition for the caliber .45 pistol, one caliber .38 revolver, and five pieces of live ammunition for the caliber .38 revolver. These discoveries highlight the potential risks posed by unlicensed weapons in the community.
Investigation and Intelligence Gathering
The operation was initiated based on credible information provided by a concerned citizen. Reports indicated that alias "Patet" had been publicly brandishing a firearm and had allegedly discharged it at dogs, creating a climate of fear and threat among neighbors. To validate these allegations, police operatives conducted thorough casing and surveillance operations, gathering evidence to support legal action.
Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, emphasized the importance of intelligence-driven efforts. "Subsequent firearms verification confirmed that the subject was not a licensed firearms holder. Based on these established facts, an application for a search warrant was filed and was thereafter duly issued by the court," she stated. This meticulous approach ensures that operations are legally grounded and effective in targeting offenders.
Commitment to Public Safety
PRO-NIR has reaffirmed its uncompromising stance against the illegal possession of firearms and all forms of criminality that endanger public safety. Malong noted that the regional police office will continue to strengthen its operations, focusing on intelligence-driven strategies and upholding the rule of law. "Through sustained and decisive enforcement actions, PRO-NIR remains fully committed to preserving peace and order and safeguarding the lives and property of all communities across the Negros Island Region," she added.
This operation serves as a clear message that law enforcement agencies are actively working to curb the spread of loose firearms, which are often linked to violent crimes and community unrest. By leveraging community tips and rigorous legal procedures, PRO-NIR aims to create a safer environment for residents, demonstrating the critical role of public cooperation in maintaining security.
