'Gun runner' arrested in Danao bust; refuses to reveal source

CEBU, Philippines - An alleged gun runner was arrested by the Danao City police during a buy bust operation in Barangay Poblacion, Danao City early afternoon last Thursday.

Samuel Hermocilla, 25, of Barangay Kahumayan, Danao City was arrested in possession of a .45 caliber pistol and an Ingram assault pistol. He is now detained at the Danao City police stockade.

SPO2 Ildefonso Prosia of the Danao City Police said Hermocilla was placed under surveillance for a week after a concerned citizen informed authorities of his illegal activity.

Last Thursday, a team led by SPO4 Nilo Pantoja Jr. together with the Regional Intelligence Unit immediately launched the operation against Hermocilla. A poseur buyer had ordered the firearms from the suspect.

At a slaughter house in Barangay Poblacion, the poseur buyer met with Hermocilla to claim the firearms and to hand over the supposed payment. As agreed by the team members, Hermocilla was placed under arrest the moment he received the P200 boodle money.

Hermocilla reportedly tried to resist the arrest, but back up operatives from prevented him from running away.

Prosia said Hermocilla was a noted gun runner in the barangay and has been in the trade reportedly for several years now. He refused to disclose his source of the firearms.

Charges for violation of Republic Act 8294 or the law against illegal possession of firearms is now being prepared against Hermocilla. Formal charges will be filed next week before the Cebu Provincial Prosecutor’s Office. – (FREEMAN)