Gun ban violators increase to 1,221

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 1,221 people nationwide have been arrested in 1,094 checkpoint operations since Jan. 9 for violating the election gun ban, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday.

The PNP said 1,179 of those apprehended were civilians, 10 policemen, eight soldiers and 13 security guards. The rest were not identified.

More than 900 firearms, 375 bladed weapons, 60 explosives and 5,683 bullets were recovered.

Chinese citizen Zhen Tian Chen, 29, was arrested in Bacoor, Cavite on Friday.

Police said Zhen was apprehended in a building in Barangay Niog 3 at around 2:40 p.m.

A security guard sought police assistance after the man was seen roaming with a gun tucked in his waistband.

Responding police officers found an unlicensed caliber .22 revolver in Zhen’s possession.

Fourteen bullets were also recovered from the suspect.

The man is being held at the Bacoor police station also for illegal possession of firearms.

The gun ban will be in effect until the end of the election period on June 8.

Only police personnel, soldiers and members of government law enforcement agencies in complete uniform and while on official duty are allowed to carry firearms during the election period.

Under Commission on Elections Resolution 10728, permits to carry firearms outside of residence, to transport firearms, ammunition and explosives as well as firearms display and exhibits and hiring of security personnel for VIPs are suspended.

Violators face disqualification from holding public office and perpetual disqualification from securing a gun license aside from losing their right to suffrage.