Santo tomas city: Police officers arrested an alleged gunrunner and seized three firearms in Santo Tomas City, Batangas, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing held at Camp Crame, CIDG Chief Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano stated that the suspect, known by the alias Zandy, was apprehended while delivering and trading three unlicensed firearms. The firearms included two caliber-5.56 rifles and one caliber-.22 rifle, along with magazines and ammunition. The operation took place during a buy-bust operation in Barangay San Bartolome on August 1.

Abrahano noted that the suspect is allegedly engaged in the illegal trading of firearms and gunrunning activities within Batangas and nearby provinces. He also mentioned that another target of the operation remains at large.

The confiscated items, valued at PHP700,000, are described as close to factory-built rifles with original parts, according to Abrahano. He highlighted the concern that these firearms might have been smuggled, as they are not standard loose firearms typically found in the area.

Abrahano expressed the CIDG's commitment to investigating the origin of these firearms and developing law enforcement strategies to address the issue. The suspect is currently facing charges for violating Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

'I commend the CIDG Batangas Provincial Field Unit for the very swift and responsive operation that led to the successful arrest of this alleged gunrunner and the seizure of three loose firearms,' Abrahano said. He further emphasized that the confiscation of these firearms helps to reduce the potential for crime by removing dangerous weapons from circulation.