Eighty-five individuals have been arrested so far, for violating the imposed election gun ban, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Spokesperson PBGen. Jean Fajardo said on Wednesday.
The number of gun ban violators had risen to 25 since its implementation on January 12, a report by RH 52 Edniel Parrosa stated.
So far, the breakdown for the number of individuals arrested is as follows:
- 78 civilians
- 3 security guards
- 2 military personnel
- 1 from the Bureau of Corrections
- 1 government employee
Alongside the arrested individuals, 86 firearms have also been confiscated since the beginning of the election period. According to Fajardo, the most common reason that arrested individuals give when being apprehended is their lack of awareness of the policy.
Additionally, others are also unaware that the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) does not exempt those with a permit to carry firearms.
Violators will face penalties in line with the COMELEC’s imposition, including the Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
On Wednesday morning, the COMELEC reported a surge in the number of gun ban violators. According to the agency’s report, the violations had already increased by 71 on its third day.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the COMELEC intensified security operations nationwide last Sunday, implementing nationwide checkpoints and the gun ban.
