By Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) has arrested a total of 86 individuals and confiscated 92 various firearms during the five-month enforcement of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban from Jan. 12 to June 11.
PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon said the confiscated firearms included 82 small arms, one light weapon, four others, categorized as improvised shotgun and sumpak, two replica guns, three explosive ordnance, and 423 rounds of ammunition.
He added 238 firearms were also voluntarily surrendered, and 371 were deposited for safekeeping by their respective owners.
Masbate registered the highest number of arrests with 23 individuals apprehended for gun ban violations, followed by Camarines Sur with 20, Albay with 17, Camarines Norte with 15, Sorsogon with nine and Naga City with two.
Meanwhile, Catanduanes remained incident-free, with no arrests reported during the entire gun ban period.
Dizon said the arrested individuals will face charges under Comelec Resolution 11067 and the Omnibus Election Code (Batas Pambansa 881).
He said depending on the findings of further investigation, some violators may also be charged under Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition, which imposes a more severe penalty of eight to 12 years of imprisonment.
The PRO-5 also conducted 34,075 checkpoints throughout the region.
Even with the conclusion of the official gun ban, Dizon said they will continue its intensified campaign against loose firearms.
He also urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities or information related to illegal possession of firearms.
“The strong partnership between law enforcement and the community remains crucial in preserving peace and order throughout Bicol,” he said. (PNA)
