Alleged supplier to gun-for-hire groups arrested in Quezon

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna – A man allegedly supplying firearms to gun-for-hire groups operating in Quezon and Batangas has been arrested, police said.

The suspect, identified by the alias “Bagno,” was arrested by personnel of the Quezon Police Provincial Office Intelligence Unit during a buy-bust operation in Sitio Tabing, Barangay Del Rosario, Tiaong, Quezon.

Calabarzon police regional director PBGen. Dominic Baccay said the suspect was identified as a supplier of unlicensed firearms to gun-for-hire groups allegedly behind killings in Quezon and Batangas.

Baccay said the arrest is expected to disrupt the groups’ operations by cutting off their source of firearms.

“Dahil ‘yung mga miyembro ng gun-for-hire medyo wala na silang mapagkukunan ngayon ng kanilang gamit na baril,” Baccay said.

Regional Intelligence Division chief PCol. Vicente Cabatingan said authorities were particularly concerned about the suspect’s alleged ability to supply long firearms.

“Ang nakakahabahala dito ‘yung isa diyan kasi long firearm kaya niya magdispose,” Cabatingan said.

Authorities seized an M16 rifle chambered in 5.56mm and equipped with a scope, two long magazines and one short magazine for the rifle, 22 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, and a tricycle.

The suspect is facing charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.