Election gun ban violators now at 1,309 – PNP
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/ MARIANNE BERMUDEZ
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Tuesday that a total of 1,309 violators have been arrested since the election gun ban was imposed on January 9.
The sum included 1,266 civilian violators, 10 police officers, eight military personnel, 14 security officers, and 11 other “uncategorized” violators, according to the PNP.
A total of 993 firearms were also confiscated along with 5,904 ammunition and 479 deadly weapons as of Tuesday’s report, it added.
The PNP said the arrests were made in Metro Manila (399), Calabarzon (134), Central Visayas (124), Zamboanga Peninsula (95), and Western Visayas (82).
In a separate statement, national police chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos said that as of February 22, the PNP has carried out a total of 1,185 operations to enforce the gun ban ahead of the general elections on May 9.
Article continues after this advertisement“These accomplishments reflect the level of commitment and dedication of our PNP personnel in our tireless pursuit of a reformed electoral process free from violence and corruption,” he said.
Article continues after this advertisement“Since the onset of nationwide gun ban, PNP persistently reminded the public especially our firearms holder to strictly adhere with the existing COMELEC policy in order to maintain safe, honest, and peaceful elections on May 9, 2022,” he added.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has imposed the nationwide gun ban for the national and local elections until June 8 this year.
READ: Gun ban on as election period begins
Under Comelec Resolution 10728, all permits to carry firearms outside of residence have been suspended except for regular members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies who are deputized in writing by the poll body.
Police, military, and security officers are also required to be in full uniform with their name, rank, and serial number visible at all times when carrying their firearm.
Violators of the election 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.
The campaign period for national candidates started on February 8, while the campaign period for local candidates will begin on March 25.
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