The Police Aviation Security Group (Avsegroup) announced the arrest of a Romanian national who was found in possession of ammunition at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 in violation of the gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections.
The individual was scheduled to depart for Caticlan when a Security Screening Officer detected bullets in his bag during an X-ray screening at NAIA Terminal 2.
A manual inspection was conducted in the presence of the passenger, confirming the presence of fifty (50) rounds of .22 caliber ammunition. Avsegroup personnel responded promptly, arrested the passenger, and filed appropriate charges against him.
The foreigner admitted ownership of the ammunition, claiming he had forgotten to remove it from his backpack before his trip.
Avsegroup Director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia reiterated his warning to the public about not bringing firearms and other prohibited items while traveling.
“Even a single piece of ammunition can cause inconvenience when passing through our airports. Regardless of the gun ban, it is illegal to carry such items without proper documentation,” he stated.
Recently, airport authorities also intercepted a Japanese national at NAIA Terminal 1 after he was found carrying a firearm in his baggage.
As per standard operating procedures, the incident was documented, and the firearm was handed over to Avsegroup.
Office for Transportation Security Administrator Undersecretary Arthur Bisnar emphasized that bringing guns and firearms to the airport is strictly prohibited. He reminded travelers that the gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections remains in effect.
“The election gun ban will remain in place until June 11, 2025. We advise all gun owners not to bring firearms and ammunition to our airports,” he said.
