PNP: 83 persons arrested, 82 firearms confiscated in election checkpoint operations

A total of 83 individuals have been arrested and 82 firearms confiscated in checkpoint operations nationwide within the first three days of the election period, according to Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Chief Superintendent Benigno Durana Jr.

In an interview on "Balitanghali", Durana said, "Nakaaresto po tayo ng 83 na suspects o violators sa checkpoint operations. For the last 24 hours, meron tayong 28 checkpoint operations."

He added, "Since start of the election period noong January 13, 2019, meron na tayong nakumpiska at na-recover na 82 firearms....Some are loose firearms so napakaganda ng ating checkpoint operations simula noong election period. The tools of crime ay natanggal na po natin sa ating mga lansangan sa ating mga komunidad."

Some were found to be legitimate gun holders, but for the remaining others, Durana said that the police will file cases of carrying firearms outside of residence. —Kaela Malig/ LDF, GMA News