PNP arrests 241 gun ban violators nationwide

PNP Chief Benjamin Acorda holds his first press briefing on April 25, 2023 (INQUIRER photo / NINO JESUS ORBETA)

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) has arrested a total of 241 gun ban violators since the first day of the filing of the certificates of candidacy (COC) for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

PNP chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. said the violators were apprehended during law enforcement operations that began on midnight of August 28 until midnight of September 3.

“Exactly one week since we launched nationwide the law enforcement operations to implement gun ban for 2023 BSKE, the PNP, so far, arrested 241 gun ban violators and confiscated 130 assorted small arms and light weapons in checkpoints and other police operations in the country,” Acorda said in a media briefing.

64 of the arrests took place in Metro Manila.

46 were arrested in Central Luzon while 22 were nabbed in Central Visayas.

The arrested individuals were charged with violating the provision in the Omnibus Election Code that prohibits the unauthorized carrying or transporting of firearms and deadly weapons outside residences, businesses, and public places.

The gun ban is in effect until November 29.

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