Police reports 7,689 unrenewed firearms in Bacolod

DESPITE the intensified campaign of Bacolod City Police Office against loose firearms, the city still has a total of 7,689 unrenewed firearms since last year, BCPO Operations Branch head P/SInsp. Lester Leada said yesterday.

Leada said, out 16,108 firearms in Bacolod City, 7,689 were not renewed in Firearms, Explosives, Security Agencies and Guard Supervision Section (FESAGSS) office.

He said in 2012, about 70 high-powered firearms were renewed in BCPO and a total of 80 low powered firearms were also renewed.

Leada added in January 2013, about 15 high powered firearms and 21 low powered firearms were renewed in BCPO.

Leada claimed they have already served at least 6,812 letters of notifications to different firearm holders in the city to remind them to renew their firearms license in BCPO to avoid any violation.

He said the BCPO have already started the conduct of house visitation to the different firearm holders who failed to renew their firearms licenses, adding that all the station commanders were already directed to monitor the firearm holders within their area of responsibility to account for the firearms.

Leada cited that since January to March 14, 2013, only six firearms were turned over in BCPO for lack of documents.

He said those who will be caught possessing unlicensed firearms will face illegal possession of firearms or violation of Comelec gun ban charges.

Leada encourage the firearm holders to renew their firearms license in BCPO or to voluntarily surrender the firearms to avoid any charges. (MAP)