In a significant crackdown on illegal firearms, a suspected gun runner was killed and three individuals were apprehended after resisting arrest during an entrapment operation conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Cebu City Field Unit. The incident occurred on Saturday, February 28, 2026, marking a critical development in law enforcement efforts in the region.
Details of the Operation
The operation took place in Purok Caimito, Sityo Lourdes, Liloan, starting at 12:30 AM and concluding at 6:15 AM. Under the flagship program Oplan Paglansag Omega, the CIDG executed a buy-bust operation targeting the group involved in illicit activities. During the transaction, the suspect identified as Vince Tayong, alias Ensoy, a resident of the area, became aware that he was dealing with police officers.
Resistance and Fatal Outcome
Upon realizing the situation, Tayong drew his firearm and opened fire, forcing the operatives to retaliate in self-defense. Tayong was shot and subsequently transported to Danao City Provincial Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. The arrested individuals were identified as Edwin Pesa Cabrera, 30, from Brgy. Jubay, Liloan; Jaymark Sacedor Igoy, 38, from Brgy. Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City; and Angelo Cruz Cardines, 25, from Brgy. Umapad, Mandaue City.
Evidence Recovered
Law enforcement officials seized several items from the suspects, including a caliber .45 pistol used by Tayong, a KG9 sub-machine pistol, multiple magazines, and various types of ammunition. These weapons are believed to be part of a larger network of illegal firearms distribution.
Criminal Activities and Background
According to the CIDG 7 report, the group was involved in the sale of unlicensed firearms, operating from Carcar City to areas such as Mandaue, Consolacion, and Liloan. Beyond gun-running, the suspects are also allegedly linked to illegal drug activities, gun-for-hire schemes, robbery, and carnapping across the Province of Cebu.
Vince Tayong was considered a person of interest in the death of his own sibling, and numerous complaints had been filed against him in Brgy. Poblacion, Liloan, highlighting his long-standing involvement in criminal enterprises.
Legal Actions
The three arrested individuals will face charges for violations of Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. This law aims to regulate firearms and ammunition strictly, and its enforcement in this case underscores the government's commitment to curbing gun-related crimes.
This operation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating illegal firearms trade and organized crime in Cebu, with authorities continuing to intensify efforts to ensure public safety and uphold the law.
