Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced an intensified nationwide campaign aimed at curbing the proliferation of loose firearms and dismantling gunrunning operations to enhance community safety.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that unlicensed firearms are the predominant tools used in criminal activities. He stated, "Denying criminal elements the opportunity to own loose firearms will cripple their capability to operate." The campaign has already shown significant results, with 828 individuals arrested and 2,604 firearms recovered, surrendered, or confiscated as of January.
Gen. Nartatez has instructed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Special Action Force (SAF), and other support units to bolster operations against gunrunning groups across the country. Additionally, he has ordered enhanced intelligence-gathering efforts to target existing gun-running syndicates and identify emerging groups involved in the distribution of loose and high-powered firearms.
The PNP Chief also tasked the Civil Security Group (CSG) with ensuring that delinquent gun owners fulfill their obligation to renew firearm licenses promptly. "Gun ownership comes with an obligation that includes renewing their licenses on time," he added.
In a separate statement, Gen. Nartatez reiterated the PNP's unwavering stance against domestic violence, particularly when involving police officers. He affirmed, "The PNP has no room for any person who deliberately inflicts harm on anybody, much more his own family. As law enforcers, we should serve and protect the people, not to threaten or harm them."
This statement follows the arrest of a police corporal in Misamis Occidental after his legal wife accused him of threatening physical harm and inflicting psychological abuse on her and their child. The PNP has assured that the wife and child involved are receiving access to violence against women and children desks, legal assistance, medical care, and psychosocial support.
