High-power firearm found in man's bag

CEBU, Philippines – A 29-year-old man was arrested in a security checkpoint on Maximo Patalinghug Avenue, Barangay Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City last Monday for allegedly carrying a high-powered firearm.

An Ingram 380 was found inside the backpack of Abel Rafaeles, a resident of Purok Caimito, Barangay Gun-ob, around 10 p.m. Sunday, said Police Officer 3 Rudy Janagap, investigator at Gun-ob Police Station.

Rafaeles, who was onboard his motorcycle at that time, was flagged down by the police personnel for a security checkpoint.

Janagap said one of the policemen assigned in the area asked for Rafaeles' driver's license but the latter was not able to present any.

Rafaeles reportedly attempted to escape when the police felt a "firearm" bulging from his backpack during frisking.

During a spot body search, the suspect also reportedly yielded a sachet of suspected shabu, which was found in one of his pockets.

He also yielded drug paraphernalia and seven live ammunition rounds which were also confiscated by the police.

Rafaeles is currently detained in the holding cell of Gun-ob Police Station and will face charges for illegal possession of firearms and violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. (FREEMAN)