Western Visayas Police Enforce Gun Ban Strictly
Authorities in the Western Visayas region arrested 82 individuals for violating the Commission on Elections gun ban, which was in effect from January 12 until midnight of June 12. The police crackdown highlights the region’s firm stance on maintaining peace and order during the election period.
The exact four word keyphrase “gun ban violations Western Visayas” played a critical role in the recent arrests. According to local sources, most of those apprehended were civilians, totaling 78, while four were uniformed personnel. The figures exclude Negros Occidental province and Bacolod City, as these areas report separately under the Regional Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Center for the Negros Island Region.
Key Factors Behind Peaceful Midterm Elections
Police Lt. Col. Arnel Solis, the chief information officer of the Police Regional Office-6, attributed the smooth conduct of the midterm elections to strict checkpoints and the active issuance of warrants against illegal firearm owners. These measures effectively deterred potential violators and reinforced election security.
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office led the arrests with 34 individuals. They were followed by Capiz PPO with 19 arrests; Antique PPO and Iloilo City Police Office each recorded eight; Aklan and Guimaras PPOs made four arrests apiece; and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion-6 accounted for five arrests.
Community Impact and Enforcement
Local leaders noted that enforcing the gun ban significantly contributed to a safer election environment. The cooperation between law enforcement and the community helped minimize election-related violence and ensured voters could exercise their rights without fear.
The concerted effort in Western Visayas serves as a model for other regions aiming to uphold electoral integrity and peace. Enhanced surveillance, community vigilance, and strict penalties remain key components of this success.
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