Army, police seize large cache of firearms in Camarines Norte

A joint operation by the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police (PNP) uncovered a large cache of high-powered firearms and ammunition in Labo, Camarines Norte, following a tip from a concerned citizen, military officials said.

Troops involved in the operation came from multiple Army units, including the 16th Infantry Battalion of the 2nd Infantry Division, the 201st Infantry Brigade, and the 42nd Infantry Battalion of the 9th Infantry Division. They were supported by personnel from the Camarines Norte 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company and the 91st Special Action Company of the PNP.

Authorities recovered 25 M14 rifles, 2,245 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 15 M14 magazines, and 41 M16 magazines from a concealed location. Security forces said the weapons appeared to have been hidden for possible future use by armed elements operating in the area.

Colonel Francis Carandang, commander of the 201st Infantry Brigade, said the discovery was made possible through information provided by a civilian, highlighting the importance of community cooperation in security operations. He said such collaboration helps restrict the movement and activities of armed groups.

Major General Ramon Zagala, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, said the seizure would significantly affect the operational capability of armed groups, noting that the recovery was the result of coordinated intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation.

Military officials described the operation as one of the largest single recoveries of firearms within the 2nd Infantry Division’s area of responsibility.

The recovered firearms and ammunition have been placed under official custody for proper documentation and disposition in accordance with existing laws and procedures. Authorities said further investigation is ongoing to identify the source of the weapons and those responsible for concealing them.