PNP nabs 2 soldiers, cop for alleged gun-running racket

MANILA, Philippines — Five men, including two soldiers and a policeman, were arrested for alleged gun-running activities in Data Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Thursday.

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, in a statement, said arrested were Patrolman Eliver Jay Anggot Soverano, reportedly assigned at the PNP-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regional Crime Laboratory Office; Army Staff Sgt. Gleen Argones Sangyao and Army Staff Sgt. Reynaldo Dichosa II; a certain Datu Morjan Kunakon Tumindig and Adams Tuminding.

The operation was conducted on Tuesday after a police poseur buyer was able to transact with the suspects for the sale of assorted firearms, according to Eleazar.

“This translates to nine fewer firearms at the hands of criminal elements who may be tapped to sow violence in the May 2022 elections,” he said.

Seized from the suspects were 5.56 mm Bushmaster rifle, two 5.56 rifles, an M4 Carbine, two cal. 45 pistols, and three 9mm pistols.

Eleazar also said the PNP will also work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to strengthen coordination and information-sharing to bolster the campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms nationwide.

Meanwhile, Eleazar also has a warning for police personnel involved in similar illicit activities.

“I am also warning all our personnel not to engage in this kind of illegal activity because I will make sure that the full force of the law will be used against you.”

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JPV