The Philippine National Police (PNP) will strengthen its nationwide campaign against loose firearms and gunrunners to enhance community safety.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. underscored that unlicensed firearms remain the primary tools used in criminal activities.
“Denying criminal elements the opportunity to own loose firearms will cripple their capability to operate,” he said.
In January alone, the campaign resulted in the arrest of 828 individuals and the recovery, surrender, or confiscation of 2,604 firearms.
Nartatez directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Special Action Force (SAF), and other support units to intensify operations against gun-running groups nationwide.
He also ordered heightened intelligence efforts to track existing syndicates and identify new groups involved in the spread of loose, including high-powered, firearms.
The PNP chief further tasked the Civil Security Group (CSG) to compel delinquent gun owners to renew their firearm licenses.
“Gun ownership comes with an obligation that includes renewing their licenses on time,” he said.