TWO days into the election period, five violators of the gun ban were arrested after several firearms were discovered inside their vehicle at the Task Force Davao Security Control Point in Barangay Lacson, Calinan, Davao City.

Based on the report provided by Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Ma. Teresita Gaspan Tuesday, DCPO and Task Force Davao personnel conducting regular checkpoint operations at the Calinan checkpoint flagged down a Ford Ranger pickup with five persons onboard.

During the visual inspection, firearms and explosives were discovered inside the vehicle which included two hand grenades; one .45 caliber pistol with 73 live ammunition and five magazines; one 9mm pistol with 64 live ammunition and two magazines; and one caliber 30 M2 Carbine with 99 live ammunition with fives short magazines and one long magazine.

She identified the arrested individuals as Analiza Jalapon Arquillano, a barangay kagawad of Magpet, North Cotabato; George Mahinay Arquillano, businessman; Reynan Lover Adame, Arnel Repollo (driver); and Renier Pedroso, a Special Civilian Armed Auxilliary (SCAA) as their escort all resides in the same address.

Meanwhile, criminal cases were being prepared against these suspects for violations of Gun Ban, RA 10591 and illegal possession of explosives.

Under the Omnibus Election Code, carrying, transport of firearms outside his or her residence or place of business from January 13, to June 12 is illegal, thus, whoever found will be charged.