93 nabbed for gun ban violations in Ilocos

61 guns seized 

By Myds Supnad

CAMP FLORENDO, San Fernando City La Union- The Police Regional Office 1 arrested 93 persons since Jan. 10 following implementation of gun ban imposed by the Commission on Election.

Chief Supt. Ericson T. Velasquez, Ilocos Region police director the 93 persons were composed of 85 civilians, five government employees, two members of the Philippine National Police and a security guard. The suspects were arrested for carrying firearms, gun replicas, explosives and bladed weapons.  

Police also seized 61 firearms; 18 high-powered, 43 of low caliber, three gun replicas, 11 bladed weapons and 15 grenades and explosives.

The violators were arrested through search warrants, checkpoint operations, buy bust and police response, said Velasquez.

Based on records, 62 were arrested in Pangasinan, 11in La Union, eight (8) in Ilocos Sur and 12 in Ilocos Norte.

According to Velasquez, the recent arrests were due to setting up of checkpoints, “Lambat-Sibat” and other police operations.

 “I ordered our police to be extra vigilant especially that the campaign period for the national candidates has started on Feb. 9. This is to ensure the safety and security of the political candidates who are visiting our region for their campaign sorties,” Velasquez said.

 He also ordered the police stations and public safety forces to ensure their operational readiness and secure vital installations and  possible targets of lawless elements.