The arrest count for election gun ban violations surged, with just over a week passing since the election period began.
As of January 20, 250 people have been apprehended for possessing unauthorized firearms, with Metro Manila and Central Luzon accounting for the highest number of arrests, each reporting 63 violations.
In a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, it was revealed that the individuals arrested consisted of security guards, military personnel, law enforcement officers, a foreigner, and a number of civilians.
Meanwhile, security personnel, along with the Philippine National Police (PNP), seized 255 firearms during the first eight days of the election period.
Some of the firearms were seized by the police at 60,778 checkpoints set up by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) nationwide.
COMELEC previously clarified that even firearm replicas, including airsoft guns, airguns, and imitation firearms, are subject to the gun ban and will be confiscated at checkpoints.
Furthermore, the COMELEC also reminded police and military personnel that they are no longer exempt from the gun ban when off-duty.
Last week, the PNP announced that around 85 individuals had been arrested for gun ban violations, a few days after its implementation on January 12.
The Commission continues to urge the public to comply with regulations to ensure order and peace during the election period.
