Retired Seaman Arrested in Gun Raid

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A retired seafarer was arrested after police raided his home for illegal firearm possession in Balasan, Iloilo, early morning on March 11.

The suspect, identified as alias Dan, 69, a former ship captain, was apprehended at his residence in Sitio Nabitasan, Barangay Poblacion Sur, Balasan.

The Balasan Municipal Police Station conducted the raid based on Search Warrant No. 2025-08, issued for violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).

The warrant was signed by Judge Jose Mauricio Gomez of Regional Trial Court Branch 71 in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.

During the search, police recovered a 9mm Para Colt AR-15 rifle with serial number 271799, a magazine, three live rounds of ammunition, and a firearm pouch.

Captain Renzo Martinez, Balasan police chief, said the operation stemmed from multiple complaints against the suspect.

“There were reports that he was threatening several individuals with his gun,” Martinez said.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect had previous blotter reports filed against him.

He was also accused of brandishing his firearm in public.

After retiring from seafaring, Dan reportedly entered the sand and gravel business.

The suspect is now detained and will face charges for violating RA 10591.