Brgy. Chairman in Victorias Nabbed for Possessing Loose Firearms, Explosives

The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region intensified its campaign against loose firearms and illegal explosives following the successful implementation of a Search Warrant for violations of Republic Act No. 10591 and Republic Act No. 9516 that resulted in the arrest of a barangay chairman on July 17, 2026, in Hacienda Nasipunan, Barangay 12, Victorias City, Negros Occidental.

The operation was carried out by Victorias CCPS, NOcPPO, in coordination with CIDG Negros Occidental Provincial Field Unit and RMFB, following a report received from concerned citizen that alias “Gar,” 54 years old, married, male, Punong Barangay and a resident of Hda. Nasipunan, Barangay 12, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, is allegedly in possession of an unlicensed firearm. The operatives immediately conducted casing, surveillance, and firearms verification which revealed that the suspect was not a licensed firearm holder. The operatives applied for and was granted a search warrant by the court. The subsequent implementation of the warrant led to the successful arrest of the suspect and the confiscation of one (1) caliber .22 revolver loaded with six (6) rounds of caliber .22 ammunition, sixty-three (63) additional rounds of caliber .22 ammunition, and one (1) hand grenade.

The suspect was apprised of his constitutional rights and the provisions of the Anti-Torture Act, in a language known and understood by him. The implementation of the Search Warrant was recorded using two (2) Body-Worn Cameras in compliance with A.M. No. 21-06-08-SC. The arrested suspect is currently under the custody of the Victorias CCPS pending the filing of appropriate criminal charges.

“The recovery of an unlicensed firearm, ammunition, and an explosive device through the lawful implementation of a Search Warrant demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting communities from potential threats. PRO NIR will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations and ensure that individuals who violate our firearms and explosives laws are held accountable,” PBGEN CARDIÑO said.

PRO NIR remains steadfast in its campaign against loose firearms, illegal explosives, and all forms of criminality through sustained law enforcement operations, strengthened intelligence gathering, and active collaboration with partner agencies and the community. Through the SAFE NIR Program, the Police Regional Office continues to promote safer communities and deliver responsive, effective, and professional police service across the Negros Island Region.* (PRO NIR)