Butuan city: The Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO-13) has reported the successful confiscation of 55 loose firearms during a five-day Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO) carried out from September 26 to 30. This significant operation aimed at reducing illegal firearms in the region has yielded positive results, with multiple police offices participating in the effort.

According to Philippines News Agency, the comprehensive operation saw the recovery of various firearms through different means. Three firearms were seized during the implementation of search warrants, one was recovered during a police response, and the majority, 51, were voluntarily surrendered to authorities. This collective effort highlights the commitment of both law enforcement and community members to enhancing public safety.

The distribution of recovered firearms across different police offices underscores the widespread nature of the operation. The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) accounted for the highest number of recovered firearms with 15. Surigao del Norte PPO followed with 13, while the Surigao del Sur PPO recovered 10. Both the Agusan del Norte PPO and Dinagat Islands PPO accounted for four firearms each. The Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 recovered seven firearms, and the Butuan City Police Office accounted for two.

Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano Magistrado IV, the Director of PRO-13, commended the dedication of the police personnel involved in the operation. He emphasized that the removal of these firearms from the streets is a crucial step in preventing their use in criminal activities and other illegal endeavors. The operation's success reflects the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and order in the Caraga Region.