Buy-Bust Operation Leads to Arrests in Makati
Three individuals, including a tabloid reporter, were arrested during a buy-bust operation for selling high-powered firearms in Makati City on the evening of May 26, according to sources familiar with the matter. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) revealed that this operation targeted a small group involved in the illegal sale of firearms without the required permits and documentation.
Authorities said the buy-bust operation was carefully planned after a police undercover agent negotiated the purchase of the firearms. The transaction took place in front of an apartelle on Kalayaan Avenue in Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo.
Illegal Firearms Sale Yields Multiple Weapons and Cash
The suspects identified as John, Gaynor, and Rodrigo were apprehended on the scene. Following their arrest, John surrendered a Bushmaster rifle and two Remington rifles, all chambered for 5.56 caliber ammunition. Additionally, authorities confiscated three 5.56 caliber magazines and three black rifle bags.
Alongside these firearms, the police seized ₱479,000 in cash, a marked ₱1,000 bill used as evidence, an Android phone, four firearms registration cards under John’s name, a green paper bag containing the money, car keys, and a brown carton box used for storing the rifles. A white sedan and its official documents were also taken into custody.
Additional Weapons Found with Other Suspects
The tabloid reporter was found in possession of a Glock 21 Gen 4 pistol, four .45 caliber magazines, and 16 live rounds. Another suspect, Rodrigo, yielded an extended magazine and a Glock magazine both for .45 caliber, as well as two Taurus magazines for 9mm firearms.
Legal Violations and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities confirmed that none of the suspects presented valid firearm permits or exemptions. This constitutes a violation of Republic Act No. 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, in connection with Republic Act No. 7166 and Comelec Resolution No. 11067. The latter enforces a gun ban during the election period.
A high-ranking police official emphasized the NCRPO’s commitment to eliminating threats to peace and security in Metro Manila. He stated, “NCRPO’s mission is clear: To remove threats to peace and security in Metro Manila. To do this, our strategy is constant: To conduct aggressive and intelligence-driven operations against the criminals even before they can perpetrate their lawlessness.”
The police continue to urge the public to report any information related to illegal firearms possession, sale, or movement through the nearest police station or official communication channels.
Finally, investigations remain ongoing to determine whether the suspects are linked to other illegal firearms transactions within Metro Manila.
For more news and updates on illegal firearms sale, visit Filipinokami.com.
