Over 600 firearms, other weapons seized in Central Luzon amid gun ban

OLONGAPO CITY—At least 658 firearms, deadly weapons, and explosives were seized in Central Luzon as authorities continued to monitor the ongoing gun ban amid the election period.

Brig. Gen. Matthew Baccay, Police Regional Office 3 director, said in a statement Tuesday that they seized the weapons since Jan. 9 and arrested at least 171 people due to gun ban violations.

Baccay urged the public to cooperate with the authorities manning the checkpoints, ensuring that police officers observe policies and procedures and uphold their rights.

“When passing through a checkpoint, motorists are advised to slow down; dim their headlights, turn on their cabin lights, and answer promptly, if asked by police authorities,” he said.

He added: “I have also reminded our personnel to be courteous to motorists and to adhere to general guidelines prescribed in our Revised Police Operational Procedures.”

The law prohibits carrying and transporting firearms, other deadly weapons, and explosives during the election period from Jan. 9 to June 8 this year. INQ

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