At least 168 people, among them 23 incumbent local government and barangay officials, were arrested by the police in a nationwide drive against illegal firearms, according to the Philippine National Police.
The highest ranking official arrested by law enforcers led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) from March 22 to 28 were Mayor Romeo Vargas of Tubajon, Dinagat Island, and Vice Mayor Antonio Adlao of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.
The rest included a municipal councilor, village chiefs and council members.
“We do not care who they are—whether incumbent or opposition [politicians]. As long as they break the law, we will implement the law,” said PNP chief, Police Gen. Oscar Albayalde, in a press briefing on Monday.
The CIDG reported confiscating 248 guns and 34 explosives, mostly through the service of 193 search warrants.
The drive against loose firearms is part of security operations for the May 13 elections. —JAYMEE T. GAMIL