CAMP COL. RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City – The Police Regional Office-13 seized 584 guns and 46 explosive devices in the campaign against loose firearms in the Caraga region from January 1 to June 26.
PRO 13-Regional Public Information Office (RPIO) chief Police Major Jennifer S. Ometer said 554 were small arms and 30 were pistols, revolvers, modified shotguns, and carbines.
Ometer said 482 were surrendered or deposited by gun owners while 45 were turned over by communist rebels.
Twenty individuals were arrested for illegal possession of firearms through search warrants and 29 during police response.
Suspects were charged for violating Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
“As we proceed to the remaining months of 2024, may these accomplishments reflect our continuing efforts to curb crimes involving loose firearms,” PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Alan M. Nazarro said.
“I also implore the participation and support of every peace-loving Caraganon on this endeavor.”
Philippine National Police chief Police Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered a crackdown on private armed groups to ensure that goons and loose guns will not be used as instruments to sow violence in next year’s polls.
“Yes, our regional command, spearheaded by our PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Nazarro, is already in high gear to implement the directive of the PNP chief,” Ometer said. “PRO-13 will continue to intensify its campaigns against loose firearms to ensure the safety and security of residents in the region.”