In a week-long effort to enforce the election gun ban, the Police Regional Office-13 (PRO-13) has successfully confiscated 107 loose firearms and 11 explosives. This operation, known as the Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations, aimed to ensure a safe and secure environment in anticipation of the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections scheduled for 2023.
According to the PRO-13 Regional Operations Division (ROD), the Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) led the operations with the highest number of seizures, arresting three individuals and recovering 43 firearms. Following closely behind was the Surigao del Sur PPO, which confiscated 23 firearms, five explosives, and made one arrest. The Agusan del Norte PPO seized 16 firearms, two explosives, and made one apprehension.
In addition to these successes, the Surigao del Norte PPO seized 15 firearms and two explosives, the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) recovered six firearms and two explosives, and the Dinagat Islands PPO secured four firearms.
The majority of the surrendered firearms, numbering 70, were handed over as part of the “Oplan: Bakal” campaign, while 32 were received through “Oplan: Katok.” Three firearms were voluntarily surrendered in response to police presence, while two more were discovered during search warrant operations.
Among the explosives confiscated were two grenades, three materials used for improvised explosive devices, one M203 ammunition, and five rifle grenades. These dangerous items pose grave dangers to public safety and can potentially be utilized to perpetrate crimes during the election period.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Kirby John B. Kraft urged all field units to intensify their efforts to combat the proliferation of loose firearms. The upcoming campaign period for the 2023 Barangay and SK elections heightens the need for a thorough crackdown on such weapons, ensuring a safe and peaceful electoral process.
“With the upcoming campaign period, we will do our best to seize loose firearms in the region as part of our efforts to ensure a safe and peaceful 2023 Barangay and SK election,” stated Police Brig. Gen. Kraft.
The recent operation’s success signifies a step towards maintaining law and order and fostering a secure environment for all during the forthcoming elections. Authorities remain committed to their ongoing efforts to eradicate the possession and use of unauthorized firearms, keeping the region safe for all its residents.
