Rider for hire held for gunrunning

MANILA, Philippines — A ride-hailing app rider allegedly moonlighting as a gunrunner was arrested during a sting in Quezon City on Tuesday.

Mark Anthony Montelbano, 44, was collared by Quezon City Police District (QCPD) operatives along 15th Avenue in Barangay E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue at around 9 p.m.

QCPD director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said the operation against Montelbano was based on information the suspect was selling unregistered firearms and illegal drugs in Cubao and Project 4.

Police apprehended Montelbano after he accepted P5,000 in marked money from an undercover operative in exchange for a .45-caliber pistol.

Police seized the motorcycle of Montelbano, who is facing charges of violating Republic Act 10591, the comprehensive law on firearms and ammunition in relation to the election-related gun ban before the Quezon City prosecutor’s office.