31 jailed for ‘loose firearms’

CEBU, Philippines —  The Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) arrested 31 persons during its “One Time Big Time” campaign last August 15 to 22 against unlicensed guns.

It was a result of the implementation of 40 search warrants in the towns of Argao, Asturias, Barili, Balamban, Carmen, Malabuyoc, Pinamuhangan, San Fernando, Samboan, Santander, Tudela, Daanbantayan, Compostela, Tabuelan, Dumanjug, Oslob, Poro, Alcantara and Minglanilla, as well as in the cities of Bogo, Danao, and Naga.

The operation was in compliance with the Philippine National Police’s and the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) anti-criminality fight against syndicated crimes, wanted persons, loose firearms, and illegal drugs.

Aside from making arrests, CPPO also confiscated 18 .38 revolvers, six .45 pistols, two .357 revolvers, two .22 revolvers, 9mm revolvers, 9mm pistols, .22 rifles, as well as several bullets for the said guns.

The arrested persons are now in the custody of the various police stations with jurisdiction and are scheduled to be charged with criminal complaints for violating Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act).

Police Colonel Noel Flores, CPPO OIC provincial director, urged individuals who own unlicensed firearms to obtain the necessary documents or permits so they would not end up in prison.

The intensified campaign against loose firearms is also a preparation towards securing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections this coming October 30. RHM (FREEMAN)