The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrests a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) in Barangay Tiguian, Margosatubig, Zamboanga del Sur on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, for illegally selling firearms. (Photo from the CIDG)
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� A member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (Cafgu) was arrested by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for illegal sale of firearms.
In a report released on Saturday, the CIDG said the suspect was operating an unauthorized gunsmithing business from his home, allegedly repairing and customizing firearms for clients like law enforcement officers, politicians and civilians.
The suspect was identified only as 鈥淛aime.鈥�
听He was arrested at 5:10 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9 in Barangay Tiguian, Margosatubig, Zamboanga del Sur through a search warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 20 Pagadian City.
He was said to be an 鈥渁ctive鈥� member of the Cafgu assigned with the Delta Company of the 53rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
鈥淛aime is considered a highly skilled gunsmith, having worked in several gunshops across different regions in the Philippines,鈥� CIDG said in its report.
Five .45 caliber pistols, two M-16 rifle lower receivers and one improvised firearm were confiscated from the suspect during the operation.
Assorted ammunition, firearm magazines, firearm accessories and gunsmithing tools like a welding machine, bench grinder and mechanical vise were also seized by authorities.
听He now faces complaints for violating the Firearms and Ammunitions Regulation Act.
According to the CIDG, 鈥淛aime鈥� was previously arrested also for听 illegally selling firearms in December 2020. He posted bail and his case was later dismissed.
听鈥淭his operation demonstrates our commitment to dismantling illegal firearms operations and enhancing public safety. We will continue to take decisive action against individuals involved in the illegal firearms trade,鈥� CIDG Director Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III said in a statement.