PNP-HPG checkpoint operations seize illegal guns, shabu
STEPPED-UP anti-carjacking operations and implementation of the nationwide gun ban by the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group has resulted in the confiscation of illegal guns and a huge volume of shabu from suspects accosted along the highways, PNP-HPG director Brig. Gen. Eleazar P. Matta said yesterday.
In a report to PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, the official said that the weapons were seized by members of the Regional Highway Patrol Unit 12 manning a checkpoint along the national highway in Bgy. Sadaan in Midsayap, Cotabato last Monday.
He said that the drivers of two motor vehicles – a Ford Raptor and a Toyota Fortuner – were accosted after they were spotted in the area using unauthorized blinkers in violation of Presidential Decree 96.
During a routine inspection and interview, officers spotted in plain view one of the guns protruding from the bag of the Raptor’s driver while the second was seen tucked in the waistline of the driver of the Fortuner.
The two drivers were placed under arrest after they failed to present any gun papers and Comelec gun ban exemption permit for the cal. .40 and cal. .45 pistols they were carrying.
They were locked-up at the Midsayap Municipal Police Station jail and are facing charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act of 2013 in relation to the Comelec-imposed gun ban.
Matta said RHPU12 officers also seized some 100 grams of suspected shabu worth P680,000 during an anti-carnapping operation along the national highway in Purok Maligaya, Bgy. Carpenter Hills in Koronadal City, Cotabato last Thursday.
The driver of the Nissan Almera where the drugs were recovered and his three passengers were arrested and charged for violation of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 following the confiscation of the illegal substance.
Matta said the car driver ignored a signal by RHPU12 personnel to stop for a routine inspection and stepped on the gas triggering a chase that ended up in Purok Maligaya.
Officers who surrounded the vehicle later saw the suspected shabu inside the car, prompting them to make the arrest. All four were locked-up at the Koronadal City police jail.
The PNP-HPG director commended the RHPU12 for their series of accomplishments.
“These successful operations are proof of the PNP-HPG’s commitment to fighting both vehicle-related crimes and illegal drug activities. I commend our personnel for their decisive actions as we continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and coordination in our efforts to ensure the safety of our communities,” Matta said.
