Vigorous drive vs loose firearms urged

Unlicensed or loose firearms are among the most commonly used tools of criminals. While the government claims it has successfully addressed the drug problem, the number of violent crimes committed with firearms has not diminished.

Illegal firearms are as dangerous as
illegal drugs. Many known instances of
violence done against unsuspecting, innocent individuals, students and members of peaceful communities have been committed with the use of guns.

Road rage incidents, where guns were used, have become common. Many of the suspects did not have the proper licenses or legal permits to possess or carry guns.

Tough guys, political bullies and crime syndicate members wield guns to intimidate peace-loving citizens, perhaps influenced by Western cowboy movies. But what clearly encourages further this kind of behavior in our country is the ease by which one can acquire a gun and illegally possess and carry it, assured in the thought that one can easily get away with any violation of law by pulling some influence or through bribery.

Without fail, in raids conducted against big-time drug operators, authorities always find a cache of illegal firearms. This means that violent crimes and guns go together in the
underworld.

We therefore urge our law enforcement, peace-keeping and crime-fighting agencies to undertake a serious, vigorous campaign against unlicensed or loose firearms to minimize the commission of crimes.

MARK E. PARAS JR. and RAMON DIÑO, [email protected]