Talipao: Authorities arrested four persons and seized high-powered firearms for violation of the Gun-Free and Peace-Centered Community Ordinance in Talipao, Sulu, officials said Saturday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the four, identified by their aliases Jarah, Sumaidi, Hamsarani, and Sahiron, were arrested by joint military and police operatives in Barangay Bagsak on Friday afternoon. Seized were two M-14 rifles, an M16 rifle, an M203 grenade launcher, assorted ammunition, and communications devices.

Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the Western Mindanao Command, stated in his report that the suspects were turned over to the Talipao Municipal Police Station. 'This successful operation reflects our troops' vigilance and commitment to protecting our communities from armed threats,' Gumiran said.

Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Cabasan, commander of the 1103rd Infantry Brigade, mentioned that the suspects were allegedly involved in a September 2025 shooting in Barangay Bilaan of the same town. Cabasan emphasized that the arrest underscores the importance of Talipao's enforcement of its gun-free ordinance, which was implemented on Feb. 17.