Man arrested in San Nicolas on illegal firearm charge

Police arrested a 39-year-old plumber for violating Republic Act 10591 after he was caught carrying a firearm without the required Permit to Carry Firearm Outside Residence (PTCFOR) during an operation early Sunday at around 1:30 AM, along the Manila North Road in front of Cecile Store in Brgy. 16 San Marcos, San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte.

The suspect was identified as Joel Abitong y Notario, married and a resident of Brgy. 13 San Eugenio, San Nicolas.

According to the San Nicolas Municipal Police Station, officers were conducting Oplan Bakal in the red-light area of the barangay when they noticed a group of men on a makeshift sidecar motorcycle parked in front of the store. While checking the surroundings, police operatives reportedly saw the grip of a pistol protruding from Abitong’s sling bag, prompting them to conduct verification.

Abitong presented a firearm license and other documents; however, authorities said he failed to produce a PTCFOR, a mandatory requirement for anyone carrying a firearm outside their residence.

Police confiscated the firearm, identified as one (1) Armscor MAPI FS Caliber 9mm pistol, serial number AB98571, marked “Tanfoglio,” with an inserted magazine containing eleven (11) live rounds. Additional items seized from the suspect included a black sling bag, a holster, one double-stack magazine loaded with six 9mm rounds, and a makeshift sidecar motorcycle.

After the confiscation, officers immediately placed Abitong under arrest and advised him of his constitutional rights. The inventory and marking of evidence were conducted at the area in the presence of the suspect and barangay officials. The arrest was also documented using an Alternative Recording Device (ARD).

Abitong is now under police custody pending the filing of charges for Violation of RA 10591.