Authorities arrested two individuals and seized two high-powered firearms during an intelligence-driven operation against illegal gun trading in Zamboanga del Sur, the military reported on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Buy-Bust Operation in New Labangan
The Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) reported that the two suspects were arrested in a buy-bust operation on Friday, June 19, in New Labangan village, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. The identities of the suspects have not been released pending further investigation to determine the full extent of their illegal activities and identify their accomplices.
Seized from the suspects were two caliber 5.56 millimeter Remington rifles with ammunition. Additionally, authorities recovered marked money, boodle money used during the operation, and a vehicle believed to have been used in the illegal firearms trade.
Legal Proceedings and Collaboration
The WMNC stated that the arrested suspects were informed of their constitutional rights and subsequently turned over to the Labangan Municipal Police Station for documentation, investigation, and the filing of appropriate charges. The operation was conducted by personnel of the WMNC in coordination with the police and other partner law enforcement agencies.
