Trio arrested in Basilan for illegal possession of firearms

MANILA, Philippines – A joint military task force on Thursday evening, November 8, nabbed 3 suspects believed to be responsible for the spate of crimes against businessmen and military men in Lamitan City, Basilan. 

Authorities said the suspects were apprehended at about 6:10 p.m. during an interdiction operation in Lamitan City after the task force received an intelligence report that members of the Abu Sayyaf Group – Urban Terrorist Group were planning to abduct prominent persons in Lamitan City. 

The suspects, identified as Patik Samson, 18, Jimboy Sahabat Mandul, 17, and Hamid Damain, 19, were spotted roaming around Lamitan City proper since 1:00 p.m. of the same day and were believed to be scouting for their probable target. 

Police caught the trio in illegal possession of one caliber 45 pistol loaded with one metal magazine, and 6 live ammunitions equipped with a suppressor/silencer.  

Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Bravo Company of the 32nd Infantry Brigade, including Deputy Chief of Party Elvin Jon Macatangay, First Lieutenant Israel Galoria of the Bravo Company, and Coy Commander Psi Saidaini of the 53rd PNP Special Action Company conducted the operations. 

Last month, 3 soldiers were killed by suspected Abu Sayyaf rebels during an ambush in Lamitan City. – Rappler.com