5 arrested for carrying firearms at Comelec checkpoint

MANILA, Philippines — Five armed persons have been arrested by authorities in a Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoint in Catanduanes.

Catanduanes Provincial Director Col. Paul Abay disclosed on Sunday that police authorities arrested Rius de la Cruz, Arnel Suarez, Noel Azores, Jony Raco, and John Paul Bernardino.

According to Abay, the suspects were arrested after authorities received a tip that there were five persons who were onboard a white Toyota Prado bearing plate number of WKA 826 carrying firearms.

The tip then led to the arrest of the suspects at a Comelec checkpoint along Brgy. Sipi,  Bato, Catanduanes last April 15.

Seized from the suspects were four units of cal. 45 pistols loaded with 25 pieces of ammunitions.

Cases for violation of Comelec gun ban are now being prepared of the apprehending unit.

A gun ban was implemented by the Comelec, in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines counterparts and other law enforcement agencies, in order to ensure the safety of the public during the election period. /je