TF Davao nabs village exec, 3 others for guns, explosives

DAVAO CITY – Task Force Davao personnel arrested a village official and three other persons after they yielded firearms and two hand grenades at a checkpoint in Barangay Lacson, Calinan District Tuesday.

Senior Supt. Alexander Tagum, chief of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), said the arrested persons were Analiza Jalapon Arquillano, a barangay councilor in Magpet town, North Cotabato; George Mahinay Arquillano, also of Magpet; Reynan Lover Adame, Arnel Repollo, and Renier Pedroso, a member of the Special Civilian Active Auxiliary who served as an escort of the group.

They were immediately handed over to the Calinan police precinct.

Tagum said the arrested persons were on board a Ford Ranger pick-up truck which was flagged down by the Task Force for inspection.

When the car was inspected, the Task Force team saw in their possession two hand grenades, several calibers of firearms, and ammunition.

Based on initial investigation, Tagum said the four arrested persons claimed they were on their way to the Davao airport.

Tagum said the arrested persons will be facing charges for illegal possession of firearms and violation of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ban on possession and transport of firearms.

DCPO and the military have intensified operations in checkpoints since the start of the election period on January 13. (PNA)