PNP: More gun ban violators nabbed

MANILA, Philippines - The number of persons arrested for gun ban violation continues to go up with only a week before election day.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday that a total of 2,958 people were apprehended for violating the gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Of the 2,958 gun ban violators, 2,727 were civilians and 36 were government employees.

“There were 39 PNP personnel, 20 soldiers, three jail guards, one fireman, one law enforcer, three CAFGU members, and 128 security guards who violated the gun ban,” the PNP said.

PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima warned gun holders not to carry firearms outside their residence until the election period ends on June 12.

The PNP has confiscated 2,901 firearms, 910 bladed weapons, 178 grenades, and 496 other explosive devices as part of the campaign against loose firearms, which are usually used in committing violence during election period.

Deputy Director General Ager Ontog, PNP deputy director for operations, said that so far, the Comelec has yet to place any areas under its control.