MANILA -- The Philippine Army (PA) will not tolerate any of its personnel involved in illegal and criminal activities.
This was emphasized by PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva when sought for a reaction on reports that firearms and ammunition earlier confiscated from a police operation in Valenzuela allegedly came from military stocks.
"The PA is now conducting investigation regarding the incident. We are in full support to the PNP (Philippine National Police) to determine who are behind or in cahoots to this nefarious activity," he added.
"We do not tolerate anyone in our rank who are bent on doing criminal acts. If ever or proven that any member of the PA is involve, we will not hesitate to impose the necessary legal or disciplinary action," Villanueva stressed.
He also said that Army personnel found involved in this illegal activity can be dismissed from the service, aside from being slapped with a variety of criminal and administrative charges.
On Sunday evening, operatives from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) arrested suspects Edgardo and Rosemarie Medel during an entrapment operation in Valenzuela City.
Initial reports claimed that the two have connections with rogue politicians and the Maute Group in Mindanao.
Seized during the operation were two assault rifles, a handgun and 12,893 rounds of live ammunition for an M-60 light machine gun and M-16 automatic rifle. (PNA)
