1st gun ban violator caught
A 51-YEAR-OLD private bodyguard yesterday became the 1st recorded violator of the nationwide gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections to ensure the holding of a peaceful and orderly October 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, Philippine National Police Public Information Office chief Brig. Gen. Redrico A. Maranan said.
Melquiades Quieta, a resident of Bgy. Tanuan in Tanza, Cavite, was accosted by officers manning a checkpoint in Bgy. Gabuco in Trece Martirez City 10:45 a.m. Sunday.
When frisked, the motorcycle-riding suspect yielded a Glock semi-automatic pistol with magazine containing several live ammunition.
Quieta was placed under arrest by members of the Trece Martirez City Mobile Patrol led by Capt. Sonny delos Santos when he failed to present a gun ban exemption from the Comelec.
Cavite Police Provincial Office director Col. Christopher F. Olazo has ordered the strict enforcement of the prohibition on the unauthorized carrying of firearms in public and employment of bodyguards in the province as part of their effort to ensure a safe and orderly BSKE.
The arrested suspect will be facing criminal charges for violation of the Omnibus Election Code and Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act of 2013, said the official.
