A security guard in Muntinlupa was arrested by the police on Feb. 16 for violating the gun ban implemented by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the May 9 national and local elections.
The Muntinlupa police identified the suspect as Randel Vinoya, 25, security guard and a resident of Muntinlupa.
According to the police, at about 8:10 p.m. on Feb. 16, elements of the Barangay Poblacion Sub-station were conducting an anti-criminality operation along Bukang Liwayway inside the New Bilibid Prison Reservation in Barangay Poblacion when they saw Vinoya not wearing a face mask.
They approached Vinoya and saw a gun tucked in his waist. This prompted the police to accost him and seize the firearm.
Recovered from Vinoya was one .45-caliber Ranger 1911 and 14 live ammunition with two magazines. Suspect is now detained at the police detention facility.
The Comelec imposed the gun ban from Jan. 9 to June 8. Under the Comelec resolution, prohibited during this period, unless authorized by the Committee on the Ban on Firearms and Security Concerns (CBFSC), are the following: To carry firearms and deadly weapons outside residence or place of business, and in all public places; to engage the services of security personnel; and to transport firearms and explosives, including its spare parts and components.
Gun ban violator will face imprisonment from one to six years, permanent disqualification from public office and loss of right to vote; and deportation for foreigners after the prison term is served.
“May I remind the public that carrying a firearm is prohibited especially if it has no document,” said Southern Police District director Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg.