Ex-navy officer caught with airguns at NAIA

A 66-year-old retired U.S. Navy serviceman was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Monday after authorities discovered airguns in his luggage — a violation of the Omnibus Election Code and the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) nationwide gun ban.

The man, a resident of Taguig City, was preparing to board a domestic flight when airport screening personnel spotted what appeared to be a firearm on the X-ray scan of his balikbayan box. A manual inspection later confirmed the presence of two airguns, for which he failed to present proper documentation.

Members of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) immediately placed the passenger under arrest. The apprehension was recorded using an alternative recording device.

PNP-AVSEGROUP Director Police Brigadier General Christopher M. Abecia reminded the public that the Comelec gun ban remains in effect.

“Imitations or replicas of firearms that substantially resemble real firearms are also prohibited,” Abecia said in a statement.

The election-related gun ban, which runs from 12 Janury to 11 June, only allows members of the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other deputized law enforcement units to carry firearms.

The suspect remains in police custody as authorities prepare to file formal charges.