Man Faces Charges From Firing Airsoft Gun

Bellevue police say they are recommending a charge of drive-by shooting assault be filed against a 19-year-old camera salesman suspected of firing shots - with what turned out to be an airosft gun - at a group of day laborers in front of a Home Depot on Sunday afternoon.

Police Spokeswoman Carla Iafrate said the department is not recommending a charge of malicious harassment, the state's term for a hate crime.

Police were called to the Home Depot on 120th Avenue Northeast around 1.p.m. Sunday after a report of shots fired by a man wearing a red T-shirt and driving a green Ford Explorer, according to the police report. No one was hit, but the laborers said they were afraid, police said.

An officer interviewed employees at a nearby Best Buy who identified the driver as a camera vendor who had worked in the store earlier in the day.

Prosecutors have until yesterday to file charges against the man, who is being held on $200,000 bail in the King County Jail for investigation of first-degree assault.

Stiff penalties for airsoft guns in Dubai

I haven't played airsoft for months now but I still I am get informed of the latest news and updates of issues that involved airsoft here in Dubai.

I was shocked when my friend spooky who also play airsoft told me that airsoft will be banned here in Dubai.

Here is what he sent me from Gulf news.

Abu Dhabi: The Federal National Council (FNC) on Tuesday passed a draft law imposing stiff penalties for carrying, possessing or dealing in arms, munitions, explosives and fire crackers without a licence.

Under the draft law on weapons, ammunitions and fire crackers, those who break the law will face up to 10 years in jail and a minimum fine of Dh15,000.

The right to possess and carry arms by people within the national territory is recognized, but with a licence and after adhering to the law.

The legislature demanded that only people aged 25 or more can obtain a licence to carry weapons, which was initially 21 years.

The house also turned down a clause that initially exempted the FNC members from obtaining a permit to carry arms.

Ahmad Bin Shabib, a member from Abu Dhabi, said he does not want to carry arms and "if there is a need I have to obtain a permit like other members of the public".

Sultan Bin Saqr Al Suwaidi, a legislator from Dubai, concurred and said this is not a privilege FNC members should seek.

Dr Anwar Mohammad Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, also demanded that a clause exempting ministers from obtaining a permit for carrying arms be removed.

The legislature gave the green light to removing all exemptions except for Rulers of the Emirates, their Crown Princes and Deputies and their sons.

According to the law, those permitted to possess arms, may not carry unconcealed weapons in public places, sports clubs, except for shooting clubs, public parties, conferences, industrial and oil production areas.

Fireworks may not be held without a permit, which is obviously a requirement for importation, production, storing, de-storing, transport and other services related to arms, munitions, explosives and fire crackers.

The law is applicable to factories of arms, explosives and fire crackers in free zones.

Anyone who commits the offence of dealing in, importing, exporting, manufacturing or attempting to smuggle weapons, munitions and explosives will face a prison term of up to 10 years and a fine of not less than Dh15,000.

The penalty will be reduced to six months in jail and a minimum fine of Dh15,000 if the offence involves non-firearms.

Using any gas or air-compressed arms, electrical or antique arms to threaten people will carry a prison term or a fine.

Repairing arms without a permit or doing so for people who are not entitled to carry arms will carry up to one year in jail or a Dh10,000 fine or both.

In all cases, arms, explosives or crackers will be confiscated and expatriates convicted will be deported following serving their prison terms.

Well, we'll just have to wait what really is this about but I think it will not affect our playing of airsoft here in Dubai. So stay tuned for more update...

PNP starts regulating Airsoft combat games

MANILA, Philippines - Airsoft enthusiasts have until July 1 to apply for the licenses of the rifles and pistols they use in their war games.

This was after the Philippine National Police (PNP) started regulating the popular combat sport where participants use varying types of weapons designed as replicas of real firearms, tactical gear, and accessories used by military and police organizations.

In GMA’s 24 Oras, reporter Claire Delfin said the PNP’s mass registration for Airsoft guns started last Saturday in Fairview, Quezon City.

Airsoft is a combat sport similar to Paintball in which participants eliminate opponents by hitting them with (6 mm or occasionally 8 mm) plastic BBs (small, spherical balls) launched from airsoft guns, that can be powered by CO2, Green Gas, spring, or electrically powered gearboxes actuating a piston.

Supt. Rogelio Simon, chief of the PNP’s permits and other licenses division, there is a need to regulate Airsoft war games since the replicas used in it could cause undue harm to others.

The PNP said those who are manufacturing, importing, selling, owning airsoft guns should apply for licenses. Those who fail to comply will face the risk of being arrested.

The PNP is also set to review airsoft’s rules and sites.

Airsoft enthusiasts, on the other hand, welcomed the move to regulate the game.

“Natutuwa kami kasi hindi na kami mari-raid at di na kami huhulihin (We’re happy because we’ll not be subject to raids and arrests anymore)," lawyer Ernesto Tabujara, founder of the United Airsoft Alliance, a group of airsoft enthusiasts in the Philippines. - GMANews.TV



For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

OFWs Fighting Conflict with Combat

In the “war zone” they may be the fiercest of foes, but the UFAC-UAE Airsoft Federation actually consists of a closely knit group of OFWs willing to lend their kababayans a helping hand.

Thank God for Japan’s contributions such as Judo (modern Japanese martial art), Anime (Japanese animation), Nintendo (multinational videogame console corporation), Tamagotchi (handheld virtual pet), first-class brands on automobile and gadgets, and advanced robotics. But do you know that there’s another sport originating from the “land of the rising sun?” To the gun aficionados, this was invented as an alternative to privately owning firearms. To the adventurous, the sport provides a feel of an actual warfare. In layman’s terms it is simply what we now call as ‘AIRSOFT’—the combat sport utilizing exact replicas of real weapons and battle gears, an effective venue for combat training.

In some parts of the globe, airsoft is restricted or even prohibited due to its ‘almost real’ aggression and damages. Luckily, it is not restricted nor banned in the UAE. Taking advantage of this are troops of Filipino (and Filipina) expatriates clad in their most intimidating combat attire making one mistake them for real soldiers. Joining the Unified Filipino Airsoft Club (UFAC) – UAE Airsoft Federation requires compliance with certain requirements and demands one’s discipline and dedication. And although the sport is Japanese in origin, the alliance has completely owned the craft for a truly ‘Pinoy experience.’

FORMATION OF TROOPS
On the 7th of September last year, UFAC–UAE Airsoft Federation was formed among airsoft enthusiasts in Sharjah and Dubai with Ramses Ruidera (a Sales Manager in American Insurance Company) as their Founding President, Roland Cruz (Interior Designer in KCA International), Johnny Fernandez (Industrial Hygienist in Dubai Aluminum), Jeff Amparado (Company Purchaser in Intersports-Al Futtaim), Zandro Tumaliuan (Interior Designer in KCA International), Napoleon Cajandab (Architect – Engr. Adnan Saffarini), and Ibrahim Bernal (Logistics Manager) as the Founding Members.

Not long after its inception, the notable reputation of the federation spread across the neighboring emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. Soon, troops of UFAC-UAE Federation Airsoft Clubs & Teams were assembled with their respective Team Leaders: Johnny Fernandez for Mistah Forces, Jeff Amparado for Magdalo Seal Team, Naploeon Cajandab for F.E.A.R., Zandro Tumaliuan for Ghost Recon, Ibrahim Bernal for A.R.M.A.S., Joseph Laihee for Bwelta Force, Miguel Sta. Barbara for Triskelion Airsoft Unit, William Macalayos for Black P.A.W., Andy Damondon for S.W.A.T., Ricardo Santos for Nautical Force, Eufrecino Duarte for P.A.R.A.K., Manuel Rodriguez, Jr. for Black Scorpion, Voltarr Manguilin for Musang, Victorio Bohol for D.A.W.G., and Angelo Navarro for P.S.I.C.O. The Federation now has 510 active members.

Every Friday, the Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club transforms into the ultimate “war zone.” The alliance is open to Filipino airsoft enthusiasts 16-45 years old, regardless of gender and social background. Although membership is absolutely free, one must submit a duly-signed UFAC Registration Form and Waiver, be a responsible owner of an AEG (Auto Electric Gun). Other accessories required include eye protectors (goggles or mask), battle dress uniform and other airsoft gears. Upon membership, basic game orientation is provided by the federation team leaders.

“WAR” FOR A CAUSE
But don’t be mislead by the “aggressive” nature of the federation. Note that after each competition, the UFAC-UAE Air Soft Federation, as a team, then sits down and works out plans and strategies to fight oppression and help our distressed compatriots through community services and projects of Lingkod OFW. These initiatives make them more than just a bunch of hobbyists. They form a new breed of social and civic service oriented club. The current Executive Council overseeing the entire organization is composed of the following:

President - Ramses Elrey Ruidera
Vice President - Roland Michael Cruz
Secretary - Marizel Tabinga
Treasurer - Dulce Palermo
Asst. Treasurer - Joseph Cruz
Auditor - Arnaldo Tumaliuan
P.R.O. - Mario Elmenzo
Internal Affairs Officer - Lidio Lim
External Affairs Officer - Rico Martinez.

The firearms may almost be too real. The physical impact may be as staggering and the mental and emotional excitement may be just as adrenaline-pumping as the real thing. But these are merely intangibles when compared to the camaraderie, bravery, and service rendered by the dedicated members of UFAC-UAE Airsoft Federation, our fellow OFWs.

Source: ABS CBN Global
by: Nikki Famador

Solon wants production and sale of imitation firearms banned

A Mindanao lawmaker is seeking to prohibit the manufacture and sale of toy look-alike or imitation firearms, which he claimed have contributed to the rising criminality in the country.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriquez said there is no law prohibiting the manufacture or production of imitation firearms, which can be used by lawless elements in the commission of crimes against persons.

Rodriguez said his proposal embodied in House Bill 3426 would protect the welfare of citizens.

The proposal defines "toy-alike or imitation firearm" as any imitation of any original firearm which was manufactured, designed and produced since 1898, including toy guns, water guns, replica non-guns and airsoft guns firing non-metallic projectiles.

Under the proposal, it shall be unlawful for any person to produce, manufacture, sell, use, ship, transport, give or receive any toy look-alike or imitation firearm unless such firearm contains, or has affixed to it, a marking approved by the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.

The required DTI's distinctive marking for imitation firearms shall have as an integral part, a permanently affixed, blaze orange pulp inserted in their barrel. Such plug shall be recessed no more than 6 millimeters from the muzzle end of the barrel.

The proposal further provides that the DTI chief may provide for an alternative marking or device for any imitation firearm not capable of being marked and may waive the requirement of any such marking or device for any imitation firearm that will only be used in the theatrical, film or television industry.

Any offenders shall be fined with P50,000 or imprisoned for at least six months, or both at the discretion of the court. The Philippine National Police director-general shall be directed to conduct a study of the criminal misuse of imitation firearms, the bill provides.

Source: Public Relations and Information Department
www.congress.gov.ph
Writer: Writer: Rowena B. Bundang, PRID

Airsoft guns hot in the market

I've read this article from Inquirer.net website about a shipment of airsoft guns seized by customs officials in paradise Philippines.

THERE has been an increase in the entry of gun replicas in the country, prompting Customs officials to double their efforts in intercepting these through newly installed X-ray machines.

"We have intercepted three containers full of Airsoft guns since June," Julito Doria, head of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) X-Ray Inspection Project, said in an interview.

Doria said original Japanese Airsoft guns, used in military simulation games, cost P12,000 each. However, those that were smuggled into the Philippines from China cost only P5,000.

"The counterfeit Airsoft guns enter the country [in huge quantities]," he said, adding that the importers declare the shipment as plastic toys to evade further scrutiny.

Doria, however, said his group was able to detect several packages of gun replicas on July 2 inside the shipment of a container van from China through the X-ray machines.

Less than two weeks later, the Customs personnel were able to intercept another shipment consigned to Kat-Leen Trading. The cargo contained P224,624 worth of gun replicas.

"Because they are exact replicas of real guns and could be used in criminal activities, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a circular regulating Airsoft products," Doria said.

He said that the installation of more X-ray machines in other major ports would greatly help in intercepting more of the gun replicas.

"In just two months of its full-blast operation, the X-ray project, which is under the direct supervision of the Commissioner of Customs, was able to [collect] various items and shipment worth millions that were recommended either for seizure or payment of additional duties and taxes," Doria said in his report to Customs Commissioner Napoleon Morales.

He said the deployment of more state-of-the-art X-ray machines in other major ports in the country would prevent the entry of contraband, guns, drugs and other anti-social goods.

"There would also be an increase in revenue collection as a result of proper declaration of importation," he said.

source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view_article.php?article_id=89543