Pangasinan PNP seizes 129 firearms, 70 illegal items
SINCE the start of the gun ban on January 12, the Pangasinan Provincial Police has made significant strides, confiscating 129 assorted firearms ensuring public safety ahead of the national elections in May.
P/Col. Rollyfer Capoquian, Pangasinan police director, said that of this number, 24 were confiscated, 7 were abandoned, 53 were surrendered following the Katok operations (visits to gun owners with expired licenses). Additionally, 45 firearms were deposited at the nearest police stations.
The police have also seized 16 explosives and 54 assorted ammunition, he said.
Capoquian highlighted the crucial role of Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints in the crackdown on illegal firearms, while police response to various incidents also led to the confiscation of 30 firearms.
The total number of firearms confiscated during the election period stands at 31, with 24 individuals arrested for violating the gun ban.
“The gun ban has proven to be a major asset in our anti-criminality campaign, especially with the presence of checkpoints. Crime incidents have drastically decreased because criminals are aware that the police are actively monitoring their movements,” said Capoquian.
Meanwhile, the Pangasinan Police bolstered its manpower with 118 newly-assigned patrolmen to join the field before the election. With a total of 3,500 police personnel now deployed across Pangasinan, the police are prepared to ensure a secure environment leading up to the elections, Capoquian said.
For gun owners with expired licenses, Capoquian said firearms must be deposited at a police station while their license renewal is being processed. Failure to comply with the Katok operations and neglecting to renew an expired license can result in legal actions, including the possibility of a search warrant being issued against them.
“Remember, you cannot bring out your gun unless you have an official exemption from the Comelec, which is processed by the PNP. This exemption comes with a strict set of procedures,” Capoquian added.
The gun ban will remain in effect until June 12, 2025, as part of the comprehensive efforts to ensure a peaceful and orderly election. (Eva Visperas
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
