Pampanga: Police operatives arrested a murder suspect on Pampanga province's most wanted list and confiscated several loose firearms and ammunition from him in Porac town on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, operatives of the Pampanga Police Intelligence Unit, backed by the Porac Municipal Police Station and other police field units, apprehended the 37-year-old suspect in Barangay Pias. The operation also led to the arrest of a 70-year-old accomplice during the early morning raid.

Authorities recovered a .45-caliber pistol, an M16 rifle, a shotgun with a defaced serial number, magazines, and assorted ammunition from the duo during the execution of the arrest warrant.

Police reported that additional charges for violation of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, as well as Presidential Decree 1829, which penalizes obstruction of apprehension and prosecution of criminal offenders, are being prepared against the suspect and his companion.

Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez, director of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 (Central Luzon), emphasized that the successful operation highlights the ongoing campaign against loose firearms and wanted persons under the Philippine National Police Focused Agenda. Mendez stated that loose firearms continue to pose a threat to public safety due to their use in crimes, and operations like this are vital to arresting wanted criminals and preventing violence, thereby protecting communities.

He further mentioned that PRO-3 will persist in conducting intelligence-driven operations against illegal firearms and criminality to ensure safer communities across Central Luzon.