44 loose firearms handed over to state troops in Lanao
Mindanao Armed Conflict • 21:00 PM Mon Nov 18, 2019
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By:
Westmincom news release
A total of 44 loose firearms were turned over by the locals of Bayang, Lanao del Sur and its neighboring municipalites to the troops of the 55th Infantry Battalion at 10am today, November 18, 2019.
“The concerted effort and intensified collaboration among our troops, the communities, local chief executives, and other stakeholders resulted in this remarkable accomplishment,” said Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo II, 103rd Brigade Commander.
Among the loose firearms handed over were 27 Caliber 45, 1 Garand, 1 M653 bushmaster, 2 M79, 2 M203 tube, 2 homemade uzi, 5 Caliber 38 revolver, 1 380 pistol, 1 9mm pistol, 1 M16 rifle, and 1 50 caliber sniper rifle.
Bayang Mayor Aslani Balt, who facilitated the ceremonial turnover of the loose firearms, thanked the troops for their effort in sustaining peace and development in the municipality of Bayang.
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ian Ignes, Battalion Commander of the 55th Infantry Battalion said, “This is part of our campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms. Through this, our people would feel more secure and safe in their daily activities.”
Lt. Col. Ignes also urged the Meranao people to cooperate and support the authorities in the campaign against the proliferation of firearms in their communities.
“Through this campaign against loose firearms we will be able to end terrorism and other criminalities such as clan wars by disarming the armed groups in our area of operation,” said WestMinCom chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana.