By Junex Doronio
CEBU CITY — In strictly implementing the guidelines on the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) has continued its “Oplan Katok” that resulted in the seizure of 48 loose firearms and 86 ammunition in just a span of three days.
During the “Oplan Katok” operations launched from September 8 to 10, police said the surrendered weapons include 9mm pistols, .45 caliber pistols, .40 caliber pistols, .380 calibers, 38 revolvers, .22 calibers, M16 rifles, and shotguns.
“As part of our in-depth preparations for the upcoming elections, your PRO-7 will not hesitate to implement the anti-criminality campaign with the aid of our security allies, the AFP and PCG, in this entire duration of the election period,” Police Brigadier General Anthony Aberin, regional director of the PRO-7, told reporters.
He said police officers conducted house-to-house visits of those who reportedly own firearms, including public officials who failed to renew their permits and licenses.
Aberin further said that at least 18 unrenewed weapons consisting of .45 caliber pistols, .357, .22, and 38 revolvers, .22 rifles, and shotguns were turned over by their owners to the police stations.
Two armed individuals, whose names were withheld, are now in police custody and are scheduled to be charged. (ai/mnm)
