‘Illegal’ gunsmith nabbed in Danao

CEBU, Philippines - A suspected illegal gun manufacturer was arrested Wednesday afternoon by the elements of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-7 during a raid in Danao City.

Police operatives seized from Dennie Barrega a caliber .45 pistol, several magazines, live rounds of ammunition, and several gun-making equipment. Barrega’s cohort, Fraulin Mata, was able to elude arrest during the raid.

Barrega admitted that he was forced to engage in the illegal gun manufacturing business because he had no other means of income.

Supt. Fermin Armendarez, III, deputy chief of CIDG-7, said that the suspects were placed under surveillance after receiving reports of their illegal activities.

Investigation shows that the suspects did not have the necessary permit from the Philippine National Police authorizing them to manufacture firearms.

CIDG-7 chief, Sr. Supt. Ritchie Posadas, said that the raid was a result of their aggressive campaign against loose firearms. Posadas vowed that more raids will be conducted in Danao City in the coming days. (FREEMAN)