Arrested violators of Comelec gun ban now at 583 —PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it has arrested a total of 583 people who violated the Commission on Elections gun ban since its implementation on January 9.

Based on PNP data, 16 new violators were arrested.

Seized from them were 11 firearms, 29 ammunition, and 10 deadly weapons, according to the PNP.

The new violators were arrested in Calabarzon, Central Visayas, Bicol, Central Luzon, Cagayan, Northern Mindanao, and the National Capital Region.

A total of 3,881 checkpoints have been set up on Wednesday.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) through Resolution No. 10728 prohibits the bearing, carrying, or transporting of firearms or deadly weapons outside residence and in all public places until June 8.

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

According to the PNP, violators may face imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years and shall not be subject to probation.

Those found guilty may also face disqualification to hold public office, deprivation of the right of suffrage, and cancellation or perpetual disqualification to secure gun license. —LBG, GMA News