AFP-marked rifles sold by fake NBI agents in Cotabato

Two men posing as agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) were caught selling government-issued firearm and magazines in Cotabato City, according to a "24 Oras" report by Emil Sumangil.

The suspects —a government employee and a security guard — were arrested in a buy-bust operation by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). 

"Itong tao na ito, nagpakilalang NBI, few minutes after, tumawag ang regional director ng NBI ng BAR (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region), tumawag sa CIDG at he said yung 2 IDs at badge na ipinakita ni suspect ay fake,” said Police Colonel Ariel Huesca of the CIDG-BAR.

"'Yung firearms, magazine ang ammunition, inilagay sa sako. Part of the investigation, is tina-track namin ang ownership ng firearms. Tiningnan namin ang lower and upper receiver, it belong to on firearms, Maybe binaklas lang nila para yung pag-transport mabilis,” Huesca said.

According to the CIDG, the suspects sold the rifle and magazines for P100,000.

“‘Yung isang pulis namin, nagpanggap na po siyang buyer. Ang sabi ng seller, maganda ang rifle, then kasama na ang magazine at bala,” said Huesca.

During the investigation, markings of AFP property were found on the rifle.

AFP spokesperson Colonel Medel Aguilar, however, said he would not comment until they have received a report.

The CIDG is coordinating with several soldiers to find those behind the illegal sale. The arrested suspects refused to issue a comment.

“This is one way of ensuring a peaceful election. As we all know kung ang baril na ito napunta sa mga unauthorized individuals at nagamit sa kalokohan, ‘yung damage na ma-inflict,” Huesca said.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News