Man arrested for firearm possession, explosive device found in Nueva Ecija

A 29-year-old man, identified as Jimmy Pascua, was apprehended for illegally possessing a 9mm pistol with four live rounds while inside Arthur's Resto Bar in Llanera, Nueva Ecija.

The arrest occurred after bar staff reported a customer brandishing a firearm, prompting a swift response from local police.

Separately, on the same day, September 16, 2025, the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (NEPPO) found an explosive device during a police operation at Barangay General Luna in Zaragoza, Nueva Ecija.

This explosive device was discovered based on information provided by a former communist terrorist group (CTG) member.

Pascua will face charges for illegal possession of a firearm, while the recovered explosive and components are under the custody of NE-PECU for proper handling.

Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Director Brig. Gen. Rogelio Peñones reiterated the police's commitment to confiscating illegal firearms and curbing criminality to ensure public safety.