PAOAY, ILOCOS NORTE — Two individuals were arrested during a gun buy-bust operation in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, on the afternoon of 12 June 2025 for violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).

The operation, which began around 2:45 PM and concluded by 6:13 PM, was conducted under the direct supervision of Police Colonel Frederick E. Obar, Provincial Director of the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO). It was carried out by joint personnel from the Paoay Municipal Police Station led by PCPT Jackson B. Sugayen, along with members of the Provincial Intelligence Unit, Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, SWAT-INPPO, Regional Intelligence Division PRO1, and the Laoag City Police Station.

The primary target was first approached by undercover police operatives along the Paoay-Balacad Road near Barangay 2, San Roque, Paoay. Upon realizing the buyers were police, he fled in a Toyota Fortuner, prompting a pursuit.

The chase ended in Barangay 22, Nagbacalan, where the suspect’s vehicle was cornered. During the pursuit, the Fortuner sideswiped a SWAT patrol vehicle, damaging its right passenger door. Also arrested was a 26-year-old woman from Brgy. 22, San Julian, Solsona, Ilocos Norte, who was accompanying the suspect.

Recovered was a loaded .45 caliber pistol concealed at his waist, along with another .45 caliber pistol, additional ammunition, sachets of suspected shabu weighing approximately six grams with an estimated street value of P40,800, drug paraphernalia, P18,000 in cash, a cellphone, weighing scale, knife, and various other items.

All seized evidence was properly documented with insulating witnesses present and recorded using body-worn cameras, in line with Philippine National Police (PNP) protocol.

The two suspects were informed of their legal rights and are set to undergo medical examination. Formal charges for violations of RA 10591 and RA 9165 will be filed against them before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor at the Marcos Hall of Justice in Laoag City.