Merced gang unit arrests three in probation check

Three men were arrested on suspicion of weapon violations Saturday, the Merced Police Department’s Gang Violence Suppression Unit reported.

Officers went to the 1000 block of West Santa Fe Avenue to conduct a probation/parole search Saturday afternoon, according to a Merced police press release.

Officers surrounded the residence. When officers approached the front door, Fernando Arellano, 26, was seen trying to sneak out of a side door.

Arellano retreated insidethe door on the officers. The officers followed Arellano and found additional gang members, Francisco Rodriguez, 24, and Marin Borja, 27, police said.

When police searched the residence, they found a loaded 9 mm handgun. Arellano, Rodriguez and Borja were arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm and ammunition, committing a probation violation and gang enhancements.

This story was originally published February 22, 2015 at 9:15 PM with the headline "Merced gang unit arrests three in probation check."