Dinagat mayor nabbed for guns, ammo

MANILA, Philippines — A mayor of a town on Dinagat island was arrested for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition yesterday. 

Tubajon Mayor Romeo Vargas was collared after an M16 rifle, a caliber .22 and ammunition were recovered during a search on his residence in Purok 1, Barangay Sta. Cruz at around 1 a.m.

The raid was based on a search warrant issued by Judge Shineta Tare Palacio, acting presiding judge of the Surigao City 10th Judicial Region Branch 32.

Also in Dinagat, Sangguniang Bayan member Norlito Ticod was arrested in Barangay Puerto Princesa, Basilisa for keeping an unlicensed gun. 

A caliber .45 pistol, a magazine and bullets were reportedly recovered from the suspect. 

“This... is a stern warning to all... including  politicians that we are serious in conducting an intensified drive against loose firearms,”  Chief Superintendent Gilberto Cruz, Caraga police director, said.