PNP confiscates 684 firearms, revokes 240 licenses in campaign vs illegal guns

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. inspects the firearms confiscated by the police.

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) revoked 240 firearm licenses and confiscated 684 firearms registered under licenses which were found to be involved in various violations and crimes over the past four years.

The sustained revocations of the license privilege of gun holders followed after the relentless implementation of RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act meant to ferret out unauthorized gun owners in a bid to boost the country’s law and order condition.

PNP-FEO chief, Col. Kenneth Lucas said the FEO conducts regular inspections and audit  in accordance with RA 10591.

“No one is exempted in our enforcement of the law. Our implementation is always fair and judicious in accordance with existing laws and regulations. This only manifests that we are serious in our thrust to account loose firearms in all parts of the country, said Lucas.

In 2022 alone, 41 licenses to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) were revoked by the PNP FEO for various violations of existing regulations. During the same year, a total of 201 firearms registered to these revoked licenses were likewise subsequently confiscated.

The grounds for revocation include involvement of the gun owners in any violation of laws like illegal drugs, illegal gambling, commission or pendency of a crime involving firearms and ammunition, prolonged non-renewal of a firearms license, illegal or unlawful transfer of firearms, violation of the election gun ban, revoked by order of the court, and misrepresentation or submission of spurious supporting documents.

Out of the 187 cases, 31 cases of firearms owners were linked to illegal drugs showing the PNP’s commitment to tackling illegal drug involvement.

Col Lucas also urged licensed gun owners to follow the proper procedures for owning and using firearms and warned them that failure to comply with laws and regulations will result in the revocation of their licenses and filing of appropriate criminal cases as evidence warrants.

The FEO likewise issued a warning against those who submit spurious documents in the application of their firearm licenses.

The PNP’s strict enforcement of the law and commitment to promoting responsible gun ownership serves as a reminder that the illegal use or possession of firearms and involvement in any unlawful activities will not be tolerated.

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