Gun ban arrests now at 2,385; highest in Metro Manila — PNP

MIDNIGHT CHECK A police checkpoint is put up in front of the Bulacan provincial capitol along MacArthur Highway in Malolos City to enforce the May 2022 election gun ban that is in effect until June 8, 2022. INQUIRER file photo / CARMELA REYES-ESTROPE

MANILA, Philippines — The total number of violators arrested during the statewide gun ban has reached 2,385 on Thursday, said the Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to the PNP’s data, the total number of violators consists of 2,298 civilians, 14 police officers, 11 military personnel, 40 security officers and 22 remained uncategorized.

A total of 1,833 firearms, meanwhile, were confiscated in the arrests, along with 10,221 ammunition, and 867 deadly weapons.

In terms of the number of incidents, Metro Manila led with the most at 826, followed by Central Visayas with 267, Calabarzon with 285, Central Luzon with 184, and Western Visayas with 143 total incidents.

Metro Manila also continued to lead with the most number of arrests at 883, followed by Calabarzon with 254, Central Visayas with 249, Central Luzon with 239, and Western Visayas with 142.

The nationwide gun ban, which began on Jan. 9, is currently in effect until June 8, 2022 per the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10728.

All permits to carry firearms outside of residence have been suspended during the state-wide prohibition, with the exception of members of the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies, who must still be fully uniformed when carrying their weapons.

Violators face jail time of one year up to six years, disqualification to hold public office, and deprivation of the right to vote.

EDV