Election gun ban arrests now at 1,160 — PNP

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday said that it had so far arrested a total of 1,160 gun ban violators amid the election period for the May 9 polls.

According to the PNP, this total included 1,069 civilian violators, eight police officers, seven military personnel, 13 security officers, and eight other uncategorized individuals.

A total of 851 firearms have so far been confiscated along with 5,312 ammunition, and 389 deadly weapons.

Metro Manila continues to lead with the highest number of recorded violators at 364. It is followed by Region 7 with 142 violators, and Region 3 with 124.

The nationwide gun ban currently imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the national and local elections is set until June 8, 2022.

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.

However, regular officers, members, and agents of several agencies are exempted from the said order prohibiting the use and carrying of firearms.

The campaign period for national candidates started on Feb. 8, while local candidates are set to start on March 25.

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