Trader caught in illegal cockfighting, gun possession

A 42-year-old businessman was arrested for illegally possessing a handgun while in an illegal cockfighting activity in one of the barangays in Iligan City last Friday.

Iligan City Police Director Dominador Estrada, identified the suspect as Mersie Dawal, married, and a resident of Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

Confiscated from him was a caliber .22 Smith and Wesson revolver with 21 live ammunition.

The arrest stemmed when a joint operatives of the local police, the City Intelligence Unit, under the supervision of Police Col. Rey Taboclaon, and the Iligan City Police Station 2 under the supervision of Police Maj. Marvin Cajegas launched the anti-illegal gambling operation at the vicinity of Bayanihan Village, Barangay Sta. Elena of the said city.

Also arrested were Abdulla Mustafa, 45 an Overseas Filipino Worker, residing at Purok Adelfa West Mahayahay; Ali Oden Bansil, 64, a resident of Purok 6, Cabaro, Hinaplanon, both of the said City; Damin Hashim, 48, resing at Maliwanag, Pantao Ragat, ,and Amanodin Balang, 64, businessman of Poblacion, Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur.

Operatives seized one live fighting cock, one fighting cock pen, bet money amounting to P1,690.

During the search, the raiding team found a gun placed inside the sling bag owned by Dawal.

Dawal will be facing a case in violation of Republic Act 10591, A Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, BP Bilang 881 in relation to Commission On Election Gun Ban and Presidential Decree 1602, and illegal gambling together with the four of his companions

Arrested suspects together with the pieces of evidence were brought to Police Station 2 for proper documentation and disposition.

Strada said may the arrest may serve as a stern warning to anyone who is still engaging in illegal cockfighting activity.