AT LEAST five persons were arrested by members of the Calatrava town police for allegedly violating the Commission on Elections (Comelec) liquor ban, which was imposed May 12 to May 13.

Police identified the suspects as Ricky Aquitar, 45; Herlan Bantemano, 56; and Diosdao Barcelo, 35.

Also arrested were Jose Joey Canencia, 58, and Dennis Laguda, 66.

Based on information provided by Calatrava town police chief, Police Major Rocky Desear, Aquitar, Banetemano and Barcelo were arrested early Sunday evening, May 12, when they were caught in the act of drinking alcoholic beverages in the vicinity of the town's public market.

On the evening of election day, police again patrolled the same area and found Canencia and Laguda also drinking, prompting them to make the arrest.

Under Comelec Resolution 10461, violators may face up to six years imprisonment if found guilty.

The ban on alcoholic drinks started early Sunday morning, and ended early Tuesday morning.

The five suspects are currently facing charges and are detained at the Calatrava Municipal Police Station.