The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed all firearms importers and dealers to refrain from selling digital night vision rifle scopes and similar devices to civilians over threats that they could be used by criminal elements.

Police Maj. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo, director of the Civil Security Group (CSG) confirmed the PNP document sent to importers and dealers of firearms and accessories under Joint Public/Stakeholder Advisory.

In directing the firearms importers and dealers to prohibit the items to be sold to civilians, Okubo cited the PNP’s power to regulate the acquisition, sale, possession, importation, and other activities concerning firearms and their major and minor components, including the accessories. 

“The PNP has noted that accessories such as digital night vision rifle scopes and similar devices are being sold or distributed in the local market without undergoing evaluation and classification by the FEO Classification Board, as required for regulated items,” the advisory signed by Okubo and Firearms and Explosives Office officer-in-charge Col. Ericson Dilag read.

“There is a significant concern that if these types of devices fall into the wrong hands and are utilized by criminal elements, the potential consequences could be severe and disruptive,” it added.

The same document directs the firearms importers and dealers to limit the sale of the digital night vision rifle scopes and other similar accessories to the members of the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Other law enforcement agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine Coast Guard are also allowed to purchase the items.

The public, particularly gun owners, are strongly advised against purchasing or otherwise acquiring digital night vision rifle scopes and similar devices, according to Okubo.

“This measure is essential to uphold public safety and security. The PNP urges full cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure compliance with this directive,” the advisory read.