Two men were arrested by police authorities following a brief motorcycle pursuit during an anti-criminality checkpoint on Wednesday midnight, seizing an unlicensed firearm and approximately 5 grams of suspected shabu valued at P34,000.

The incident occurred at around 12 a.m. along Marcos Alvarez Avenue in Barangay Talon Singko, Las Piñas City.

The suspects were identified as alias Xerxis, 38, a resident of Gumaca, Quezon; and alias Joselito, 38, a resident of Barangay Talon Dos, Las Piñas City.

Initial investigation revealed that tactical motorcycle riding unit personnel were conducting routine 'oplan sita' operations when they flagged down a gray Honda Click motorcycle after observing that the back rider was not wearing a safety helmet. Instead of pulling over, the driver sped off, triggering a brief pursuit until officers cornered the motorcycle.

Upon intercepting the vehicle, officers spotted the handle of a 9mm caliber pistol tucked in the driver's waistband, loaded with a magazine and seven live cartridges. The driver failed to present legal documentation for the firearm.

Meanwhile, as the back rider attempted to flee, officers restrained him, leading to the recovery of one heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu weighing approximately 5 grams.

The suspects will be charged for violation of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and for violation of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) to be filed before the Las Piñas City Prosecutor's Office.