33 nabbed in gun ban violation

By Danica Caballero

LEGAZPI CITY --- At least 33 individuals were arrested in Bicol Region during the first month of enforcing the gun ban in ;line with the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE), the Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO5) said on Friday, September 29.

Based on the PRO5’s record, the province of Masbate has the highest number of violators with 16; Camarines Sur with five; Naga City with four; Albay, three; Camarines Norte and Sorsogon with two each; and Catanduanes, one.

The arrests resulted from a series of proactive police operations, including police responses, buy-bust operations, execution of search warrants, armed encounter, related to car theft, checkpoints, and apprehensions made in flagrante delicto.

In a press statement, PNP RO 5 said thatt these operations led to the confiscation of 29 assorted firearms, 10 deadly weapons, and 302 rounds of ammunition. In addition, 28 complaints have already been filed in court against the offenders.

PBGen. Westrimundo Obinque, PRO5 Regional Director, appealed to firearm owners to refrain from carrying their weapon in public during the gun ban period. He emphasized that law enforcement authorities are ready to make arrests if necessary.

“We urge individuals in possession of firearms to refrain from taking them into public spaces to avoid legal repercussions,” he said.

The gun ban was imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Philippine National Police in connection with the BSKE and will remain in effect until November 29, 2023. (PIA5/DDC)