Joint Military-Police Operation Nets Six High-Powered Firearms in Maguindanao del Sur
In a significant law enforcement action, government troops successfully seized six high-powered firearms during a coordinated operation in Maguindanao del Sur. The joint effort between military and police forces was launched on Saturday, April 4, 2026, targeting armed groups causing unrest in the region.
Operation Details and Recovery
Brigadier General Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, confirmed that the firearms were confiscated around 4:45 p.m. in Masigay village, Datu Piang. The operation involved members of the 38th Infantry Battalion working alongside the Datu Piang Municipal Police Station under the AFP-PNP law enforcement framework.
The primary objective was to defuse tensions and ensure the safety of civilians amid reported clashes between armed factions. "We will not tolerate any kind of violence. All those involved in the unrest in the area will be prosecuted and held accountable to the law," Catu emphasized in an official statement.
Weapons and Ongoing Efforts
The recovered arsenal included:
- An M60 machine gun
- An M4A1 rifle
- An M16 rifle
- An M14 rifle
- Two M653 rifles
In addition to these firearms, authorities also seized magazines and various types of ammunition, including 5.56 millimeter and 7.62 millimeter rounds. Catu noted that hot pursuit operations against those involved are still ongoing, underscoring the commitment to fully address the security threat.
Background of the Incident
The operation targeted armed groups led by alias commander Mando Santukan of Task Force Ittihad and alias Kob Silongan, who were reportedly exchanging gunfire in Sitio Tambua, Upper Masigay. This confrontation had created chaos in the area, prompting the swift military-police response.
By recovering these high-caliber weapons, the joint forces aim to prevent further violence and restore stability in Maguindanao del Sur. The successful seizure highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in maintaining peace and order in conflict-prone regions.
