NCRPO chief vows to penalize gun ban violators in Metro Manila
Police Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), has warned firearms owners to strictly observe the gun ban implementation in Metro Manila to avoid legal troubles that could even lead to jail terms.
Nartatez issued the warning after 10 people were apprehended after they yielded short firearms and blade weapons in checkpoints that were set up in various parts of Metro Manila as the nationwide gun ban started on Aug. 28.
NCRPO chief Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. (photo: NCRPO)
“All violators during the duration of the election period would be prosecuted and penalized accordingly,” he said.
Nartatez then reminded all firearm owners to be responsible and adhere to the guidelines on gun ban.
“Only regular members or officers of the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other enforcement agencies of the government who are duly deputized by the Comelec for election duty are authorized to carry and possess firearms during the election period,” said Nartatez.
More than 100 checkpoints were set up in various parts of Metro Manila as part of the security measures for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
Nartatez assured that the anti-criminality campaign will be pursued, including that of illegal drugs, while Metro Manila policemen perform election-related duties.
Nartatez also assured the public that they will keep up with its vigilance and increase police presence and visibility in public areas even after the gun ban period.
“I encourage and seek the public to cooperate and support the implementation of the Comelec gun ban as well as adhere to the guidelines as stated in the Omnibus Election Code to ensure a peaceful, fair, and safe conduct of the barangay elections,” said Nartatez.