PNP revokes 240 gun licenses, seizes 684 FAs
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday announced the revocation of the firearm licenses of 240 individuals and the confiscation of 684 licensed guns since 2019 to date after their registered owners were found to have violated tough gun rules and regulations imposed by the government.
PNP Firearms and Explosives Office director, Colonel Paul Kenneth T. Lucas said that in 2022 alone, 41 Licenses to Own and Possess Firearms or LTOFP were revoked for various violations of existing regulations.
During the same year, a total of 201 firearms registered to these revoked licenses were subsequently confiscated, the official reported to PNP chief, General Rodolfo S. Azurin Jr.
The 41 gun-holders whose LTOFP were revoked were the registered owners of two or more licensed guns.
The PNP-FEO implements a strong policy against illegal firearms and violations of its existing rules and regulations, all anchored on Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act of 2013.
Grounds for revocation of LTOFP, Firearm License or Certificate of Registration as well as Permit-to-Carry-Firearm-Outside-of-Residence include involvement of the gun owners in any violation of laws like illegal drugs, illegal gambling, commission or pendency of a crime involving firearms and ammunition, prolonged non-renewal of a firearms license, illegal or unlawful transfer of firearms, violation of the election gun ban, official order by the court and misrepresentation or submission of spurious supporting documents.
“The revocation of these delinquent licenses was done in accordance with Republic Act 10591. We will not tolerate the abuse of firearms by those who are involved in nefarious activities,” said Col. Lucas
“These revocations send a clear message that we will take action against those who use or possess firearms illegally,” he added.
Out of the 187 cases, 31 cases of firearms owners were linked to illegal drugs showing the PNP’s commitment to address the presence of gun-owners who are involved in illegal drug use and any other activities, the official said.
Col Lucas also urged licensed gun owners to follow the proper procedures for owning and using firearms and warned them that failure to comply with laws and regulations will result in the revocation of their licenses and filing of appropriate criminal cases as evidence warrants.
“You are responsible for the safe and proper use of your firearms, and any violation of the law will result in the revocation of your license,” he said.
The PNP’s strict enforcement of the law and commitment to promoting responsible gun ownership serves as a reminder that the illegal use or possession of firearms and involvement in any unlawful activities will not be tolerated, Col. Lucas added.
