PNP: Dismantling of armed group to reduce crimes in Samar

From the Philippine News Agency (May 12, 2023): PNP: Dismantling of armed group to reduce crimes in Samar (By Sarwell Meniano)

RECOVERED. Assorted firearms seized by police operative from a criminal gang in Calbayog City on May 10, 2023. The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the death of an armed group leader and the arrest of 15 of his cohorts in Calbayog City will reduce the shooting incidents and illegal drugs trade in Samar province. (Photo courtesy of PNP)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the death of an armed group leader and the arrest of 15 of his cohorts in Calbayog City will reduce crimes, particularly illegal drug trade in Samar province.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, PNP Eastern Visayas regional director Brig. Gen. Vincent Calanoga commended joint operations for the neutralization of the group on May 10.

“The turn of events was inevitable since a firefight ensued during the operation. His doing was indeed a significant threat to the community and the whole of Eastern Visayas. If he had not been neutralized, he would have continued in all his illegal activities that would cause disorder and havoc to the populace. Likewise, the seizure and recovery of assorted firearms and ammunition is truly an accomplishment,” Calanoga said.

The official said that Magbutay, 26, alias "Alas," was reportedly behind recent shooting incidents in Calbayog City and allegedly involved in the illegal drugs trade.

Police operatives conducted an intelligence-driven operation and service of two warrants of arrest for murder cases against Magbutay on May 10 in Hamorawan village in Calbayog City.

Policemen raided the place where Magbutay and his men were sighted. The troops managed to rescue a minor who evaded from police and caught several men in illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

Magbutay fired at the cops who shoot back, killing the gang leader instantly.

Recovered from Magbutay were a .45-caliber pistol and assorted ammunition.

Seized from his men were ammunition rack containing hundreds of live ammunition for .45-caliber pistols and M1 Garand, rifle grenades, sets of bandoliers, magazines for different types of rifles, tropical combat shoes, jungle hammock, raincoats, military and police uniforms.

The operation was a joint effort of the PNP Regional Intelligence Division, Provincial Intelligence Unit, Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, Samar Police Provincial Office, 2nd Samar Police Mobile Force Company 12th Special Action Battalion, and Calbayog City Police Station.

Samar police provincial director Col. Peter Limbauan said the dismantling of the armed drug group led by Magbutay and his cohorts has a great impact on the peace and security of Calbayog and Samar province.

“The trust and confidence of the populace in the PNP is somehow regained. We expect that shooting incidents and illegal drugs trade will be minimized,” Limbauan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1201381