A joint law enforcement operation in Dr. Jose P. Rizal town, Palawan, led to the arrest of a 21-year-old man for alleged illegal possession of a firearm and illegal drugs on April 10, the Palawan Police Provincial Office (PalPPO) said.
Police identified the suspect as alias “Mike,” a resident of Barangay Iraan, Aborlan.
According to the report, personnel of the Rizal Municipal Police Station (MPS) responded to information from a confidential informant at around 9:20 p.m. about a man allegedly carrying a firearm while riding a motorcycle in Purok Balite, Barangay Punta Baja.
A team led by Police Master Sergeant Peter Sumundong proceeded to the area and arrived at around 9:45 p.m., where they saw the suspect beside the national highway with a parked motorcycle.
Police said they observed the handle of a firearm protruding from the suspect’s pocket. The suspect allegedly threw the firearm into a nearby bush and attempted to flee but was immediately apprehended.
Recovered from the suspect was a homemade caliber .22 pistol without a serial number, loaded with one round of ammunition.
A search conducted after the arrest also led to the recovery of two sachets containing a substance suspected to be shabu, with an estimated weight of 0.9 grams and a street value of ₱3,600. Authorities also seized an aluminum foil, a coin purse with cash, and an additional .22 caliber bullet.
Police said the marking and inventory of the seized items were conducted at the scene in the presence of the suspect and witnesses.
The suspect is now under the custody of the Rizal Municipal Police Station.
Charges for violations of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared for filing before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor.
“The Palawan Police Provincial Office reaffirms its unwavering commitment to intensify its campaign against illegal firearms and dangerous drugs, and urges the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement efforts to ensure peace and order in the community,” the Palawan Police Provincial Office said.
