PNP: Arrested violators of election gun ban now at 611

The Philippine National Police on Thursday reported 28 new violators who were arrested for violating the gun ban in connection with the 2022 elections, which brought the total arrested people to 611.

According to the PNP, confiscated from the new violators were 18 firearms, 60 ammunition, and 13 deadly weapons.

The new violators were arrested in Angeles City, Antipolo City, Batangas, Ormoc City, Cagayan de Oro City, Iloilo, Misamis Oriental, Malabon City, Pasig City, Manila, Parañaque City, Bacoor City, Rizal province, Zamboanga City, Cebu City, Bukidnon, Pasay City, Mandaluyong City, Muntinlupa City, and Valenzuela City.

A total of 4,914 checkpoints have been set up on Thursday.

Under Resolution No.10728, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) prohibits the bearing, carrying, or transporting of firearms or deadly weapons outside residence and in all public places from January 9 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.

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

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