PRO-7 launches manhunt v. ex-Danao official for alleged gunrunning

CEBU, Philippines — A former elected official in Danao City is currently on the run, while three of his suspected accomplices were arrested in a buy-bust operation against selling of unlicensed firearms conducted on March 21 in Barangay Suba, Danao City.

According to the Police Regional Office-7 that operatives successfully intercepted the three suspects and seized multiple unlicensed firearms and firearm components after months of intelligence gathering and surveillance.

Seized from the suspects included three units of .45 caliber pistols with six empty .45 caliber magazines, one unassembled unit of a KG9 machine pistol with two empty KG9 magazines, and one unassembled unit of a Black Widow 9mm pistol.

The midnight operation was led by personnel from the Regional Special Project Unit (RSPU) 7, in coordination with the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 7.

The PRO-7 said that the arrested individuals are alleged members of a gunrunning syndicate responsible for the distribution or selling of loose firearms to criminal groups operating not only in Central Visayas but also in other parts of the country.

Authorities have been closely monitoring on their activities due to the reported threat they are posing to public safety and security.

PRO 7 Director Redrico Maranan said that the operation was part of the regional police's intensified campaign to dismantle illegal firearms networks and to prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands.

“We will not stop until all individuals involved are held accountable,” said Maranan.

The three arrested suspects will be charged with violations of Republic Act 10591, or The Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act in relation to the Omnibus Election Code.

Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched to locate and apprehend the former elected Danao City official allegedly involved in the gun-running activity.

In line with the latest apprehension, PR0-7 urged the public to report any information that may aid in the arrest of the suspect.