Police Seize Homemade Firearm in Arevalo District Sting
Iloilo City police successfully apprehended a 50-year-old suspect during an entrapment operation targeting illegal firearms trade in Barangay So-oc, Arevalo District. The arrest occurred at approximately 9:05 p.m. on November 24, 2025, marking another victory in the city's campaign against loose firearms.
Operation Details and Evidence Recovered
The Iloilo City Intelligence Unit (CIU) conducted the carefully planned operation that led to the capture of the suspect known under the alias Totong. According to police reports, the bachelor allegedly sold an unregistered firearm to an undercover police officer posing as a buyer.
During the transaction, the suspect exchanged the illegal weapon for P3,500 in marked money. Following the arrest, authorities confiscated several pieces of evidence including:
- One Caliber 5.56 homemade revolver
- Two live ammunition rounds
- The marked buy-bust money used in the operation
Police Commitment to Community Safety
Police Colonel Kim Legada, city director of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), emphasized the significance of this operation in their ongoing efforts to maintain public safety. "This accomplishment reflects our strong commitment to keep Iloilo City free from the proliferation of loose firearms," Legada stated.
The police official further explained that "We will continue to pursue irresponsible gun owners and criminal elements who endanger lives and threaten the peace and order of our communities." This operation aligns with the Philippine National Police's proactive law enforcement approach under their new mantra focused on swift, honest, and tangible service.
The suspect currently remains in custody at Iloilo City Police Station (ICPS) 6 while authorities prepare formal charges for violating Republic Act 10591, known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. This legislation provides the legal framework for firearms control in the Philippines and carries serious penalties for violations.
