More guns, gadgets seized in Bilibid raid

MANILA, Philippines - Various firearms, bladed weapons and appliances were confiscated during a raid on the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City yesterday.

The raid, conducted by NBP guards and teams from the Explosive and Ordnance unit of the Philippine Army, was the fifth to be conducted this month alone.

Using metal detectors, Army explosives experts raided the maximum security compound’s Quadrant 4, where Buildings 2, 5 and 9 occupied by several gangs are located, Bureau of Corrections Director Ricardo Rainier Cruz III said.

Seized during the five-hour raid were various firearms and bladed weapons. Some of these were found buried in the garden or hidden in pots.

Recovered from the Sputnik gang dormitory were improvised shotguns, a .45 caliber pistol, a fragmentation grenade and ammunition.

The search also yielded mobile phones, air conditioners, a karaoke system, speakers and television sets. Authorities found gallons of fermented yeast and bottles of alcoholic drinks.

Cruz said the raids on the national penitentiary would continue until the prison facility is cleared of contraband.