Negros Or. PNP to launch operation vs. loose firearms

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) of Negros Oriental is set to launch massive operations against the loose firearms in the province.

PNP provincial director Sr. Supt. Edward Caranza said he has directed his police chiefs to conduct regular checkpoints in their respective areas to fully enforce Oplan Bakal, the PNP’s campaign against firearms that are unlicensed or those with expired registration.

Caranza issued the directive following a series of crimes in the province perpetrated with the use of guns.

He also instructed the Negros Oriental Police's firearms licensing section to update its current list and conduct an inventory of legitimate firearms holders in Negros Oriental, and check on those whose gun licenses have expired.

Caranza also called on firearms holders, with expired licenses and registration papers, to have them renewed otherwise they shall be subject to police operations and charges in court.

The police will also conduct an inventory of gun shops in Dumaguete and other parts of the province to determine whether they have the authority to sell firearms and ammunitions, and ask for a list of buyers of rounds of ammunitions.—(FREEMAN)