Nationwide Gun Ban Leads to Thousands of Arrests
The nationwide gun ban resulted in the arrest of 3,616 individuals, including foreigners and law enforcement personnel, over five months, sources said. The Philippine National Police (PNP) implemented this gun ban to ensure safer midterm elections. It began on January 12 and was lifted on June 11.
Throughout this period, the PNP confiscated 3,702 firearms. These included 1,317 revolvers, 1,057 pistols, 28 rifles, 28 shotguns, and 908 other types of firearms. The nationwide gun ban played a crucial role in reducing loose firearms on the streets.
Police Chief Vows Continued Enforcement After Gun Ban
PNP chief Gen. Nicolas D. Torre III emphasized that the end of the nationwide gun ban does not mean a halt to operations against illegal firearms. “We will not let up. The conclusion of the gun ban marks a transition, not an end. The PNP remains committed to sustaining peace, preventing gun-related violence, and protecting every Filipino from crime and lawlessness,” he said.
Torre credited the success of the campaign to checkpoints and targeted police operations. Since January 12, nearly one million checkpoints—998,679 to be exact—were conducted nationwide. These checkpoints resulted in 265 arrests, while police response efforts led to 1,879 additional arrests.
Breakdown of Arrests Under Nationwide Gun Ban
Among those arrested, civilians made up the largest group with 3,462 individuals detained. Security guards numbered 61, while 16 were foreign nationals. Police personnel accounted for 21 arrests, soldiers for 19, and elected officials for 14. Other law enforcement agents totaled seven, and three were minors involved in conflicts with the law.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) registered the highest arrests at 1,271. Region 3 followed with 435 arrests, Region 7 with 429, and Region 4A with 336. Other notable regions included Region 6 with 113 arrests, Region 10 with 112, and Region 1 with 103.
Ensuring Lasting Peace Beyond Gun Ban
The nationwide gun ban was a critical step toward maintaining peace during the midterm elections. However, local leaders noted that the PNP’s continued efforts against illegal firearms are essential to long-term security. The police’s vigilance in conducting checkpoints and swift responses to violations will remain key in keeping communities safe.
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