PNP nabs 162 violators of election gun ban

Policemen inspect a vehicle at a Comelec checkpoint along the Quintos bridge in Downtown Dagupan City at the start of the election gun ban on Monday, January 10, 2022. (Photo by Willie Lomibao)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Monday the arrest of 162 violators of the election gun ban that is currently in effect nationwide.

Based on the police’s data, 13 more violators, including 12 civilians and one personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, were arrested on Sunday, January 16.

The latest violators were arrested in Guimaras, Bukidnon, Pasig City, Parañaque City, Mandaue City, Manila City, Negros Occidental, and Malabon City, the PNP said.

READ: NCRPO arrests 14 for violating election gun ban

The other 149 violators were apprehended from the start of the gun ban implementation until January 15.

To date, the PNP has put up 27,826 checkpoints across the country to implement the gun ban, which the Commission on Elections imposed as part of preparations for the May 9 polls. The election gun ban started on January 9 and will end on June 8.

READ: Gun ban on as election period begins

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

Campaign period for national and local candidates will kick off on February 8 and March 25, respectively.

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