KFR gang busted, P10M drugs seized in drug ops

DAVAO CITY — Three members of a notorious kidnap-for-ransom group were arrested Wednesday afternoon and P10.2 million worth of illegal drugs were seized in Zamboanga Sibugay.

Firearms and explosives were recovered from the suspects: Nicanel Maningo, Benhazer Anduhol and Solaiman Calon in a raid in Barangay Tenan, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion commander, said that the arrested suspects are all members of the Barahama Alih Group, which is a notorious in kidnap-for-ransom gang and also engaged in illegal drug trade activities in Zamboanga Sibugay.

He said seized from the suspects were some 1.5 kilograms of suspected shabu packed in different sizes of plastic sachets with an estimated PHP10.2 million market value, one M-16 Armalite rifle, two handguns, explosives, ammunition, and illegal drug paraphernalia.

Col. Bagnus Gaerlan, Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the arrest of the three will significantly reduce the capability of the Barahama Alih group in conducting kidnapping and other illegal activities.

“We will continue to go after them in order to ensure the safety and security of the people of Zamboanga Sibugay,” Gaerlan said, whose brigade has operational jurisdiction over the province of Zamboanga Sibugay.

The raid was jointly carried out by soldiers, policemen, Philippine Coast Guard personnel, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency operatives, and National Bureau of Investigation agents. (with reports from PNA)