26 firearms seized, 2 arrested in Pampanga

The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) seized 26 firearms and arrested two suspects in an operation in Arayat, Pampanga on Tuesday.

One of the suspects, a 45-year-old man, is facing charges for usurpation of authority or official function after allegedly posing as a PNP police officer and an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) serviceman.

He is also charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Meanwhile, the 40-year-old second suspect is facing charges for violating the Omnibus Election Code's gun ban.

"The suspects were identified as part of a criminal group allegedly involved in extortion and gun-for-hire activities," the PNP-CIDG said in a statement.

Among the confiscated items were:

• A fragmentation grenade
• A .45 caliber pistol without a serial number
• A .45 caliber Colt pistol
• Nine rounds of 9mm ammunition
• Four rounds of .45 caliber ammunition

Authorities also recovered AFP and PNP ID cards and uniforms, which were allegedly being used for illegal activities. — DVM, GMA Integrated News