Man Arrested in Manila for Illegal Firearm Possession Amid Election Ban
A 30-year-old man was detained in Sampaloc, Manila, for causing public alarm while carrying an improvised firearm, violating both existing gun laws and the nationwide election gun ban. The incident highlights ongoing enforcement efforts to curb illegal weapons during sensitive election periods.
Authorities apprehended the suspect, identified as Angelo Rodriguez, a resident of Palawan Street, Barangay 537, Sampaloc, around 11:05 a.m. on May 16. The arrest took place at the intersection of Palawan Street and G. Tuazon Street after a concerned citizen reported the disturbance.
Police Response and Arrest Details
Officers assigned to the Gulod Police Community Precinct under the Manila Police District Sampaloc Police Station responded promptly to the complaint. Upon arrival, they observed Rodriguez openly brandishing a firearm, which alarmed nearby residents. When confronted, he attempted to flee but was quickly subdued by police officers.
Upon searching the suspect, authorities recovered an improvised firearm along with a live .45 caliber round. Initial investigations confirmed that the firearm was unregistered and undocumented.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Rodriguez was immediately arrested and taken to Ospital ng Sampaloc for a medico-legal examination. He was then transferred to the Sampaloc Police Station for further investigation. The suspect faces charges for violating Article 155 of the Revised Penal Code, concerning Alarms and Scandals, and Republic Act No. 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act of 2013. These charges are in connection with the Omnibus Election Code’s nationwide gun ban.
He remains in police custody and will undergo inquest proceedings at the appropriate Prosecutor’s Office. The seized firearm and ammunition have been sent to the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory for ballistic testing and verification.
Community Safety and Law Enforcement
Local experts emphasize that the enforcement of gun regulations, especially during election periods, is crucial to maintaining public safety and order. Community leaders said, “This arrest sends a clear message that illegal firearms will not be tolerated, particularly amid heightened security concerns during elections.”
Reports indicate that authorities continue to monitor and respond promptly to any incidents involving illegal weapons to prevent potential violence and ensure peaceful election activities.
For more news and updates on illegal firearm possession, visit Filipinokami.com.