CAMP COL. RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City – The Police Regional Office-13 has seized 158 loose firearms, two improvised explosive devices, and 132 bullets as it intensified the implementation of the election gun ban in the Caraga region.
“No letup on election gun ban drive as campaign period already moving,” PRO 13-Regional Public Information Office chief Police Major Jennifer S. Ometer said.
One-hundred twenty-nine guns were confiscated during the implementation of search warrants, police response, voluntary surrender, and other law enforcement operations. Sixteen were turned in by owners for safekeeping pending the renewal of firearm licenses, Ometer said.
“Thirteen assorted firearms were also surrendered by former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who availed of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program,” Ometer said.
“Our round-the-clock election gun ban drive will continue, without let up in an objective to make Caraga peaceful and orderly in this year’s midterm polls,” Ometer added.
“PNP-Caraga remains steadfast in its commitment to eliminate the proliferation of loose firearms, ensuring that these weapons do not fall into the hands of criminal elements – especially now that we are in the election period,” PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Christopher N. Abrahano said.