Baker is 8th "violator" of gun ban in Cebu City

CEBU, Philippines - A baker was the most recent person to experience the wrath of the law for violating the Comelec gun ban.

Argie Arceda was charged before the Regional Trial Court last Friday after he was found with a .38 revolver at the city port’s passenger terminal. He was charged for violating Section 261 of Presidential Decree 881 in relation to the Commission on Elections Resolution 8714.

Arceda was heading for Iligan City when the x-ray machine spotted the gun stashed inside a motorcycle tire together with his luggage. He was subsequently placed under arrest.

Aside from Arceda, police also charged in court one Charlon Orsajes who figured in a shoot-out with the policemen in barangay Sawang Calero. Orsajes was armed with a snub nose Caliber .38 revolver when concerned citizens of the said barangay was alarmed by his presence. Members of the San Nicolas Police Station composed of PO2 Eric Ricardel, Mark Pateño and Nel Lavizares responded to the alarm.

Orsajes even exchanged shots with the policemen and was hit on his left thigh. No one from among the authorities got hit.

Also facing charges for violating the gun ban are Ricky Abarca, Jun Rey Cornesio, Nicomedez Tabar, Dante Baring, James Russel Gimena and Virgilio Neri Taboada. Prosecutors have recommended bail ranging from P10,000 to P12,000 for their temporary liberty. — Fred P. Languido/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)