PNP: Gun ban violators reach 250

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday morning said they already arrested 250 people for violating the gun ban related to elections.

PNP Spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor said that as of 8 a.m., most of the persons arrested were civilians.

Mayor said there are 238 civilians, two police officers, three government/elected officials, three members of Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, two security guards and one member from a law enforcement agency and the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit apprehended for carrying firearms.

He added that the seized items include 154 firearms, 734 bladed weapons, 23 other explosives, nine grenades, one other explosive, seven firearm replicas and 717 ammunition.

Mayor vowed that the PNP will strictly impose the gun ban to guarantee a secured 2016 polls.

"Police Director General Ricardo Marquez, assures that the PNP will remain vigilant in its law enforcement and security operations to ensure safe and fair election,” Mayor said.

The nationwide gun ban is being implemented by the PNP and other law enforcement agencies for the May 9 elections. It commenced last January 10 and will take effect until June 8.

The Commission on Elections will suspend the permits of firearms owners except if they were issued certificates of authority.