The Philippine National Police (PNP) has seized a total of 10,214 loose firearms from January 1 to May 7 this year amid the renewed drive to account for unregistered firearms in the country.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. said the operations also resulted in the arrest of a total of 3,208 individuals who are now included in the charge sheet for a total of 1,582 cases of illegal possession of firearms.
“Accounting of loose firearms and arrest of wanted persons are the centerpiece actions of the anti-criminality campaign that the PNP is waging. Firearms as instruments of crime and the players that put into action the criminal motive are the factors that largely contribute to the commission of a crime. If we can take away these instruments of crime and the persons behind it, then we have effectively prevented crime,” said Acorda.
In order to avoid being arrested and charged, Acorda advised the public, particularly individuals with expired firearms to turn over their guns for safekeeping until such time that the requirements for firearms registered are met.
He cited the efforts of some firearms owners who turned over 5,608 firearms for safekeeping.
"Our campaign against loose firearms is a continuous effort to ensure the safety and security of our people. These accomplishments are the result of the hard work and dedication of our police officers and the cooperation of the public,” said Acorda.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts to eradicate the proliferation of loose firearms in our communities. I urge everyone to support our campaign and report any illegal firearms to the authorities," he added.