Gun ban: 1,763 violators caught

MANILA, Philippines — Police have arrested 1,763 people nationwide for violating the election gun ban.

In a report released yesterday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said 1,696 of those arrested are civilians.

Twenty-seven are security guards, 15 PNP members, nine military personnel and 16 from other sectors.

The PNP Command Center said 1,642 operations have been conducted since Jan. 9.

Police operatives seized 1,138 small firearms, 46 light weapons, 79 replicas, 94 unknown firearms and 62 gun parts.

Also seized were 70 explosives, 565 bladed weapons and 7,542 bullets.

The PNP said a majority of those arrested are from Metro Manila with 637 followed by Calabarzon, 193; Central Visayas, 185; Central Luzon, 173 and Western Visayas, 93.

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

Civilians cannot carry guns outside their residence. Those with firearms are required to show a valid certificate of authority to carry or transport them.

Violators face charges for illegal possession of firearms in accordance with Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10741.

The resolution mandates the putting up of checkpoints as well as prohibits bearing, carrying and transporting of firearms and other deadly weapons.

Violators also face disqualification from holding public office, deprivation of the right to vote and cancellation or perpetual disqualification from securing a gun license.

Law enforcers are exempted from the gun ban as long as they have an authorization from the Comelec and wear an agency-prescribed uniform while on official duty.