Five men in Surigao del Sur were arrested for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives.

The Police Regional Office-Caraga (PRO-13) said the suspects were arrested in a hot pursuit operation after two of the five men allegedly evaded a checkpoint in Hinatuan town.

The police said the cops at the checkpoint noticed the muzzle of a gun protruding from the suspects’ bag.

Police and military troops tracked the suspects down at the house they were renting in Barobo town where authorities also seized two hand grenades, two caliber .45 pistols, a caliber .30 rifle, and the motorcycle used by the two of them earlier.

The suspects are all from Nueva Ecija. They are facing charges for alleged violation of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591).

“We attribute the success of their arrest to the cooperation of the community, which was instrumental in locating the suspects. We were able to preempt their possible plans of committing crimes or illegal activities. Meanwhile, I encourage every peace-loving member of our community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or individuals to the nearest police station,” PRO-13 Director, Brigadier General Alan Nazarro, said.