Gov’t forces seize illegal firearms from gun factory in Maguindanao

February 15, 2019

Government forces seized illegal firearms from a gun factory that supplies war materiel to members of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao on Friday morning.

Major Arvin Encinas,  spokesman of the 6th Infantry Division, said the gun factory located at Brgy Poblacion, Buluan was raid by police and military troops around 6 am.

He said they were implementing a search warrant against Abusama Abpun, 60, an illegal firearms manufacturer.

According to Senior Supt James Gulmatico, regional head of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the suspect was the source of firearms for criminal elements, including the BIFF.

“Our informant showed us videos of the suspect while repairing a gun owned by a BIFF member who personally brought the defective weapon," Gulmatico said.

"We followed the legal procedures in serving the warrant," he added.

Encinas said among firearms seized were three M4 carbine rifles, one M1 carbine, six 9mm tomgram, a 12 gauge shotgun, a tripod for cal. 50 heavy machinegun, and several unassembled firearms.

Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, commanding officer of the 33rd Infantry Battalion, emphasized the importance of the discovery of the gun factory.

"We have removed another logistics support source of the BIFF and other lawless elements. We will defeat them by cutting off the sources of their weapons," he said.

Major General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, assures that the military will continue its effort to maintain peace in his area of responsibility.

"I am extending my appreciation to the soldiers and policemen who successfully implemented this law enforcement operation.  We will continuously support the local government in keeping the peace," Sobejana said. Robina Asido/DMS