THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has apprehended 42 individuals for violating the election-related gun ban, according to DCPO acting director Police Colonel Hansel Marantan.
In an ambush interview on Thursday morning, April 24, during the Majlis Rumah Terbuka Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr Open House), Marantan said the arrests were made between January 12 and March 11.
A total of 32 firearms were recovered and confiscated, along with two firearm replicas. Additionally, 121 firearms were voluntarily surrendered to authorities, along with six explosives and one deadly weapon.
Despite the number of apprehensions, Marantan noted that there have been no incidents of violence related to gun ban violations or election-related activities.
“So far, we have a good output dito sa election gun ban,” Marantan said, adding that the DCPO conducted a total of 30 operations during the period.
Davao City has maintained a green category status, indicating a relatively peaceful election atmosphere despite minor political tensions.
The DCPO previously reminded the public that unauthorized possession of firearms during the election period is a serious offense. Violators will face charges for illegal possession of firearms and for violating the gun ban provisions under the Omnibus Election Code. These offenses carry severe penalties and are strictly enforced to maintain peace and order.
One of the most notable arrests took place on February 4, when police apprehended Anwar Saluang, the appointed mayor of the newly created town of Nabalawag in Cotabato province, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm), along with his three escorts at a checkpoint in Toril, Davao City.
Authorities discovered two pistols inside their vehicle while they were en route to downtown Davao City.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has imposed a nationwide gun ban from January 12 to June 11, 2025, in line with the upcoming midterm elections. The measure aims to prevent election-related violence and ensure the safety of the public during the campaign and polling period. RGL