12 armed men, lawyer nabbed for election gun ban violation
FILE / STOCK
BAGUIO CITY — Twelve men and a lawyer who allegedly interfered with their arrest were taken into custody on Saturday, May 10, in Pidigan town, Abra province, for violating the election gun ban.
The Police Regional Office–Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO-CAR) reported Sunday, May 11, that police officers, soldiers, and election officials responded to a reported commotion around 5 p.m. along the provincial road in Barangay Laskig.
Authorities intercepted a black Nissan Navarra and a white Toyota Hilux used by the suspects.
Upon inspection, law enforcers recovered several long and short firearms, including M16 rifles and .45-caliber pistols, along with ammunition, tactical gear, handheld radios, and ballistic vests. The suspects were disarmed and arrested.
A lawyer who allegedly attempted to interfere in the investigation despite repeated warnings was also arrested and now faces charges of obstruction of justice.
The 12 other suspects will be charged with violating Republic Act No. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act), in relation to Commission on Elections Resolution No. 11067, which enforces the election gun ban.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police Firearms and Explosives Office has revoked the firearm license of Ryan Luna, barangay captain of Dangdangla, Bangued, and a former mayor, following his alleged involvement in two shooting incidents.
One incident occurred in April 2022, resulting in the death of Ronie Bermudez Bringas. The second, on April 21, 2025, in Tayum, left Jordan Claustro Barcena wounded and Jay-ar Tanura dead.
Two counts of murder were filed against Luna on April 30 before the provincial prosecutor’s office.
Police noted that both shootings happened during the election gun ban period.
