CIDG nabs leader, cohort of gunrunning syndicate

FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on Thursday arrested an alleged leader of a gunrunning syndicate and his companion in an entrapment operation in San Mateo, Rizal.

Apprehended by CIDG regional operatives were Christian Merencillo, head of the Merencillo gang, and his henchman Rodante Cruz Jr.

The two suspects were arrested in an entrapment operation at around 5 p.m. on Thursday along National Road in Barangay Dulongbayan, San Mateo, Rizal.

Seized from the suspects were a Glock 23 caliber .40 pistol and a magazine, a Bushmaster caliber 5.56-mm rifle and a caliber .45 Armscor which were all unlicensed. Also recovered was the suspects’ Chevrolet vehicle.

CIDG chief Director Benjamin Magalong said the Merencillo gang has been behind gunrunning activities in Rizal province and nearby areas.

According to Rizal province CIDG chief Supt. Felipe Natividad, they received a tip about the group’s activities, prompting them to verify this through surveillance.

Merencillo and Cruz are now detained at the CIDG office in Rizal while waiting to be charged with illegal possession of firearms.

RELATED STORIES

2 alleged drug gang members nabbed; firearms seized in buybust operation in San Mateo

Cops arrest 8 wanted men in a day