Manila: Two police officers assigned in Caloocan City will face dismissal proceedings after being arrested in a buy-bust operation for allegedly selling unlicensed firearms, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced during a press briefing in Camp Crame that the two active officers, holding the ranks of Staff Sgt. and Master Sgt., were apprehended at approximately 5:30 a.m. in a sting operation. Both officers were affiliated with the Caloocan City Police Station.

The officers are expected to face charges for violating Sections 28 and 29 of Republic Act 10591, known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. They will also be subject to administrative charges. Gen. Nartatez emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "I will dismiss the police officer and NCRPO Regional Director Maj. Gen Anthony Aberin will also dismiss them, not only for criminal cases but administrative cases shall be filed, and their salary will be cut immediately. Alaws- P or absence of leave without pay."

Authorities reported that the officers were arrested after arranging a meeting with a civilian acting as a poseur-buyer to finalize the illicit transaction. During the operation, several firearms were confiscated from the suspects, including two PNP-issued firearms: a Pietro Beretta Model 92 DS 9mm pistol with a magazine containing 10 rounds, and a Taurus 9mm pistol with two magazines holding 35 rounds.

Additionally, law enforcement seized a .38-caliber revolver with two rounds, a 12-gauge shotgun with four shells, the marked buy-bust money comprising one genuine PHP500 bill, and two PHP1,000 boodle bills. Two mobile phones and two motorcycles were also confiscated during the operation.

Gen. Nartatez stated that the suspects were taken to the Caloocan Police Station for documentation. They are scheduled for an inquest on Thursday before the appropriate court in Caloocan.